Assistive Technology and Libraries

 

Assistive Technology and Libraries

By Julian Bernal-Sevison

In today's world, patrons must have access to assistive technology. Whether it be within one's household or at the movie theater, there is a chance for anyone to need assistance. Libraries have long been champions of equal access to information, and that commitment extends to making sure people of all abilities can use library resources. As we are at the forefront of our blog, this topic is crucial to our group. 

While many different factors contribute to the recognition of assistive technology, it is not something that can be easily addressed. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the ALA guidelines both do this job, but also have an understanding that many libraries and their staff simply do not receive the proper funding and/or training for using or supporting patrons with assistive technology (Pontis & Mallary, 2021). This gap in training limits staff confidence and impacts the quality of service patrons with disabilities receive, undermining the library’s mission of equitable access for all. These tools are not just nice to have; they are essential. For patrons with visual, auditory, physical, or cognitive disabilities, assistive technology can mean the difference between inclusion and exclusion. This is why staff need to be incorporated well into the assistive technology programs in their libraries. Offering and supporting are very different in the library setting (Guder & Booth, 2012). Even more importantly, libraries often pair this technology with staff support and training, creating a welcoming space where users can explore and learn without fear of judgment. 

Libraries can work to obtain many important assistive technology devices, including screen readers for blind users, hearing loop systems for the hard of hearing, adaptive keyboards and mice, magnification software, or voice-to-text programs. Some libraries even offer Braille displays, tactile graphics, or tablets with accessibility apps pre-installed.

Potnis, D., & Mallary, K. (2021). Analyzing Service Divide in Academic Libraries for Better Serving Disabled Patrons Using Assistive Technologies. College & Researc

, 82(6), 879–898. https://doi-org.palomar.idm.oclc.org/10.5860/crl.82.6.879 

Guder, C. S., & Booth, C. (2012). Making the Right Decisions about Assistive Technology in Your Library. Library Technology Reports, 48(7), 14–21. https://research-ebsco-com.palomar.idm.oclc.org/c/3wabvt/viewer/pdf/sdqn4ncwon