Library Technology

Web accessibility means that websites, tools, and technologies are designed and developed so that people with disabilities can use them.

More specifically, people can:

• perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with the Web

• contribute to the Web

Web accessibility encompasses all disabilities that affect access to the Web, including:

• auditory

• cognitive

• neurological

• physical

• speech

• visual

Web accessibility also benefits people without disabilities, for example:

• people using mobile phones, smart watches, smart TVs, and other devices with small screens, different input modes, etc.

• older people with changing abilities due to aging

• people with “temporary disabilities” such as broken bones or lost glasses

• people with “situational limitations,” such as in bright sunlight or in an environment where they cannot listen to audio

• people using a slow Internet connection, or who have limited or expensive bandwidth

From the Web Accessibility Initiative's Introduction to Web Accessibility

Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability; Accessibility of Web Information and Services of State and Local Government Entities

On April 24, 2024, the Federal Register published the Department of Justice’s final rule updating its regulations for Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The final rule has specific requirements about ensuring that web content and mobile applications (apps) are accessible to people with disabilities.

It's important that libraries are aware of these changes and contact their governing bodies to ensure that they are in compliance.  The links below provide additional information from the US Federal Government about the ruling.  

Guides to ADA Title II

Guidelines & Standards

Evaluation Tools

Alternative Text

Articles