Fifty-four million Americans (more than one in five) have disabilities. Libraries must ensure that their services and equipment are accessible to all. ASCLA (The Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies) has links to issues and actions for various groups.
Research about having a Sorenson V-Phone installed at your library through Sorenson VRS. This video communication device for the deaf community can be installed in your library for free!
The American Sign Language Browser demonstrates hundreds of signed phrases and words using Quicktime video clips. Also, not for kids only, the Internet Public Library KidSpace features a section on sign language and braille with lots of resources on learning sign language and on deafness and deaf culture.
Communicate with your patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing using this basic American Sign Language guide for librarians. The guide is in JPEG format in two files including library terminology and days of the week and basic questions, words and phrases, and library material formats. (see our Disability Resources page for more).
Read a comprehensive overview on library service to people with disabilities from the N.J. State Library. Find inspiration in examples of library services and programs for people with disabilities.
Trix Bruce is a workshop presenter and ASL performer who performs and presents her One Deaf Woman Show nationwide. Trix offers a variety of shows reflecting deaf culture, American Sign Language and American popular culture, and several DVDs of performances available for purchase.
Center on Disabilities (CSUN): The Center in Disabilities is committed to the vision of an inclusive society in which persons of all abilities have the chance to achieve their goals and experience success. Through the provision of excellent training and research, we nurture learning and innovation to improve the world or people with disabilities.
Upgrade your skills: take free online mini-courses on web accessibility or accessible technology.
"Challenge Your Library to Serve Challenged Individuals" (This article originally appeared in the Jan/Feb 2003 issue of Public Libraries magazine.) Read about Marsha Werle accomplished at the Emmett (Idaho) Public Library with little to no budget.
The Durham County (NC) Public Library is an example of a library providing exemplary service to people with disabilities
Transform your library: The Newburyport (MA) Public Library used grant funding to provide adaptive technology for their patrons.
The Disabilities Clip Art provided to nonprofit organizations by the Northeast Ohio Regional Library System is an excellent resource for all libraries. The fourteen images include library patrons and depict a wide range of ages and various disabilities.
The Librarians' Connections to Disability Resources includes information on serving deaf patrons and on assistive technology.
