Making Library Websites Accessible: A Practical Guide for Librarians

(Paperback)

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Description

Every person has the right to access information and the right to succeed, regardless of their capabilities or the challenges they face. These challenges can be even more difficult when accessing information online. Libraries often adopt new web technologies in an effort to quickly and widely promote information access and education, but they must always be aware that not all patrons are able to access those technologies in the same manner and at the same level. Making Library Websites Accessible provides practical information on web accessibility, specific to the processes and concerns of libraries. It includes the basics of web accessibility standards, laws and regulations, as well as accessibility testing templates. Features include: Real-life scenarios Checklists for accessibility testing Accessibility testing forms Guidelines for negotiations with library vendors

Reviews

Making Library Websites Accessible gives valuable practical advice with real-life scenarios to help librarians understand and address the range of challenges experienced by disabled patrons when accessing information online. The emphasis is on understanding accessibility from the perspective of the disabled patron, while reminding librarians that all patrons are individuals. -- Richard Milne, Systems Librarian, Robert Gordon University Library
A down-to-earth, practical, and timely reference book on accessibility. The importance of understanding diversity underlines each chapter as real-world scenarios and thought provoking hypothetical situations are realistically drawn out. If you work with diverse populations and are challenged with maintaining and curating information online, you'll need this book close at hand. -- Zemirah Gonzales-Lee, User Engagement Librarian, National University Library
Packed full of practical and common sense tips and hints on building more accessible library websites, this should become a go to guide for both experienced and early career librarians. -- Heather Bain, Customer Support Librarian, University Library, Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, UK
This work briefly but competently covers auditory, visual, cognitive, motor, and social disabilities; the assistive technologies used by those who are disabled; and best practices for website development. Information on how to advocate with third-party vendors is particularly helpful, as many library resources are not home grown. There are only a few snippets of code in a section on HTML, so web development knowledge is not essential . . . Useful as a starting point for library staff involved in website development and e-resources, as well as those who want to advocate for all of their patrons. * Library Journal *

Author Bio

Laura Francabandera spent a decade in corporate management before receiving her Masters in Library and Information Science from San Jose State University. She telecommutes from her home office as a Learning Systems Technologist for Credo Education (Boston, MA) - implementing e-learning content into a variety of Learning Management Systems in libraries and educational institutions. She passionately advocates for those who are often overlooked and for accessibility in all facets of technology.