Guidelines for Inclusive Library Services for Persons with Print Disabilities

Abstract

The Guidelines for Inclusive Library Services for Persons with Print Disabilities provide comprehensive guidelines for libraries seeking to offer inclusive and accessible services. It outlines practical strategies for improving access to physical and digital spaces, building inclusive collections, and utilizing accessible formats such as braille, large print, audio, and digital texts. Emphasizing Universal Design and the right to read, the guidelines address the needs of individuals who are blind, visually impaired, dyslexic, or physically unable to read standard print. Key topics include assistive technologies, accessible communication, inclusive programming, and metadata standards for discoverability. The guidelines aim to inspire all types of libraries to embrace equity and participation, and offer concrete examples and tools to implement effective, user-centered services. They support the global effort to end the “book famine” and advocate for meaningful engagement with persons with print disabilities in all aspects of library service planning and delivery.