Abstract
One of the core values of librarianship as expressed through ALA’s Code of Ethics is providing equitable service and access to all library users. This is further enforced by federal laws such as the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which includes Section 508 requiring federal agencies to make their electronic and information technology (EIT) accessible to people with disabilities. While there has been much said about accessibility within library scholarship, this paper takes a unique holistic approach at applying the accessibility maturity model to library collections and services through covering a number of initiatives that Texas A&M University Libraries have taken to try to ensure that accessibility is considered when reviewing new subscriptions and services. These include the creation of a pilot program to collect VPATs from vendors and the development of accessibility and accommodation plans.
Disability Inclusion and Library Collections: Initiatives for Greater Access for All
One of the core values of librarianship as expressed through ALA’s Code of Ethics is providing equitable service and access to all library users. This is further enforced by federal laws such as the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which includes Section 508 requiring federal agencies to make their electronic and information technology (EIT) accessible to people with disabilities. While there has been much said about accessibility within library scholarship, this paper takes a unique holistic approach at applying the accessibility maturity model to library collections and services through covering a number of initiatives that Texas A&M University Libraries have taken to try to ensure that accessibility is considered when reviewing new subscriptions and services. These include the creation of a pilot program to collect VPATs from vendors and the development of accessibility and accommodation plans.