Assistive Technology in the Library (LT130 - Assistive Technology KGaines)

Assistive Technology in the Library

You've ensured that there is handicapped parking in the lot, a ramp to tackle any stairs or steps, well-marked signage, and wide enough aisles - what other things can library staff do to ensure that their library and materials are available to all patrons?  Assistive technology!

While the mention of assistive technology might bring to mind the most advanced technical services, assistive technology can cover items peripheral devices such as large print books, headphones in varying sizes and styles, tables that can accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters, chairs of varying sizes and heights, etc. Providing these types of materials and resources can help ensure that all library patrons are able to access the reading materials, technology and resources that are available in the library.

According to the American Library Association, libraries can also provide the following higher tech solutions for their patrons:

• Screen reading technology allows people who have visual impairments or who are blind to navigate electronic resources using text-to-speech and refreshable Braille.
• Screen magnification software and technology enables users with visual impairments to enlarge text and graphics for easier viewing.
• Literacy software and hardware assists users with reading and writing tasks. Text-to-speech, adaptive switch, and other hardware and software tools assist users with reading, writing, and input tasks.
• Speech recognition software helps users to navigate and document text through verbal input.

It is important to note that all library patrons have the right to their privacy, even if they require or request assistive technology to access that information. Libraries and library staff should have written policies that include direction from the Americans with Disabilities Act, the American Library Association, and other resources to ensure their compliance with legal obligations related to their patrons.  These policies should be clearly communicated and available to all patrons.    According to the ALA, "Users should be notified about library privacy policies when accessing assistive technology in the library. The privacy policies should be made easily available and understandable to users. Safeguarding user privacy requires that individuals know what personally identifiable information is gathered about them, how long it is stored, who has access to it and under what conditions, and how it is used", (ALA).

In summary, our libraries are meant for all patrons to access.  Taking steps as library staff to ensure that access is equal and privacy protected is an important step in that direction.

Works Cited

“Library Privacy Checklist for Assistive Technology.” ALA, 26 June 2021, www.ala.org/advocacy/privacy/checklists/assistivetechnology. 

“Library Privacy Guidelines for Assistive Technology.” ALA, 26 Jan. 2020, www.ala.org/advocacy/privacy/guidelines/assistive-technology.