Assistive Technology and Libraries

 

Assistive technology and libraries

Assistive technology (AT) in libraries should be seen as a bonus and a necessity. Assistive technology in the library includes screen-reading software and braille displays. AT is a significant factor in giving all users the tools they need to access the digital world. Some libraries offer:

1.      Accessible workstations, with adaptive keyboards, alternative mice, and voice input.

2.      Portable AT kits that patrons can borrow or use at home.

3.      Workshops to introduce patrons to assistive apps and tools.

4.      Staff Training so that every team member can support accessible services.

An important factor when considering the type of AT services to bring into the library is how user-friendly the programs are. Potnis and Mallary (2021) state that,” assistive technologies that are not intuitive or user-friendly may be unused by patrons with disabilities.” If the system is not user-friendly, patrons will not be keen to use the services, undoubtedly resulting in money lost for the facility. Adding technology is essential in the quest to close the digital gap; therefore, selecting programs that are easy to use is key to patrons who might benefit from AT technology.

 Sources Cited

Potnis, Devendra, and Kevin Mallary. “Analyzing Service Divide in Academic Libraries for Better Serving Disabled Patrons Using Assistive Technologies.” College & Research Libraries, vol. 82, no. 6, Sept. 2021, pp. 879–98. EBSCOhost, https://doi-org.palomar.idm.oclc.org/10.5860/crl.82.6.879.