Libraries / Learning Resource Centres

Libraries and learning resource centres are very much on the front line when it comes to supporting the user experience. It is good practice to draw users’ attention to access issues with the building and any accessibility services the library may provide.

• Accessing space and information. Often library spaces occupy buildings constructed well before accessibility issues were part of the specification. Some buildings have been modified to make them as accessible as possible. Where physical accessibility is impossible, alternative services can be provided, such as having catalogues and renewal systems available online so that users can browse or renew remotely; moving away from hardcopy journals and books to e-journals and e-books that are available remotely. Additionally, simple uses of technology can enhance the accessibility of almost any library space.
• Navigating the space. For many learners finding the right departments or shelves can be tricky for subjects which cross traditional boundaries; reading the titles and reaching items on higher shelves can be difficult for wheelchair users; transcribing catalogue information correctly can be problematic for dyslexic users. Techniques that libraries can use to solve some of the problems include:
  • Printed floor plans or audio tours to aid navigation.
  • QR codes can be used on computer based catalogue pages so that transcription errors can be avoided. The student simply photographs the QR code with their phone camera and the catalogue item’s key data then shows on their phone. This assists those who would have difficulty transcribing information correctly and those who have difficulty remembering strings of numbers in order to find items on the shelf: the student holds the phone at eye level against the shelf to match the catalogue information on their phone with the information on the shelf.
• Specialist provision. Often PC terminals containing assistive technology are located within the library or learning resource centre. Whilst these may be managed by the library, they will be discussed in more detail in the section on IT provision.

It is vital that library policies are as up to date as possible with technology and as inclusive and flexible as possible. Procedures must be standardised across provision so that learners receive the same response, to the same question, from different members of staff. Internal communication policies and continuing professional development policies are therefore among the most important. Resource procurement and delivery policy should also reflect an inclusive approach. Titles, journals, catalogues and systems should all be reviewed for accessibility at regular intervals, as the field of e-books and e-journals becomes more commonplace and accessible.

The Online Accessibility Self Evaluation Service (OASES) is an auditing and self-assessment tool that can be used to assess and benchmark current accessibility practice. This is role specific guidance for individuals and teams within an institution, across institutions and for an entire institution. It can be undertaken at any time without any prerequisite prior understanding of accessibility and inclusion issues.

Related Resources

• Guide Obtaining Textbooks in Alternative Format
• Good Practice Guidance for Library and Information Professionals: Moving Towards Accessible e-Book Platforms
• Best Practice Guides for Library Staff
• Publisher Lookup
• Obtaining Alternative Formats
• e-Books
• Online Accessibility Self Evaluation Service for Librarians