Accessibility Metadata: Statement and Principles

Abstract

This statement affirms the critical role of accessibility metadata in advancing universal and equitable access to information, ideas and literature and in supporting an inclusive information society.

The statement underlines the role of accessibility metadata in facilitating the search for and identification of resources with accessibility features in library catalogues and discovery platforms, so that all library users experience an equitable resource discovery process. The statement includes a set of general principles for the design and usability of this metadata. The statement and principles provide a high-level framework that can be used to guide the development of standards such as best practices, as well as to evaluate their effectiveness. This statement is also an important tool for advocacy.

Note on Cultural and Linguistic Diversity:

This statement provides a conceptual framework for the use and design of accessibility metadata to meet the needs of users with disabilities and does not specifically address cultural and linguistic diversity.

However, the IFLA Accessibility Metadata Network (AMN) recognizes important, parallel cultural and linguistic diversity, including the recognition of Indigenous languages as an integral dimension of accessibility.

AMN recognizes and respects Indigenous knowledge systems and protocols. The use and application of the Accessibility Metadata Statement and Principles are intended to embrace and adhere to Indigenous knowledge systems and protocols.