Making Library Websites Accessible

Laura Francabandera spent a decade in corporate management before receiving her Masters in Library and Information Science from San Jose State University. She telecommutes from her home office as a Learning Systems Technologist for Credo Education (Boston, MA) - implementing e-learning content into a variety of Learning Management Systems in libraries and educational institutions. She passionately advocates for those who are often overlooked and for accessibility in all facets of technology.

• Chapter 1. The Basics of AccessibilityChapter 2. Visual Disabilities and Assistive TechnologiesChapter 3. Auditory Disabilities and Assistive TechnologiesChapter 4. Cognitive Disabilities and Assistive TechnologiesChapter 5. Motor Disabilities and Assistive TechnologyChapter 6. The Digital DivideChapter 7. Laws, Organizations, and StandardsChapter 8. Writing Content with Accessibility in MindChapter 9. Building an Accessible WebsiteChapter 10. How to Conduct Accessibility TestingChapter 11. Third-Party and Library Vendor WebsitesChapter 12. Beyond AccessibilityAppendix 1. Sample Accessibility Testing ProcessAppendix 2. Accessibility Testing Report

This work briefly but competently covers auditory, visual, cognitive, motor, and social disabilities; the assistive technologies used by those who are disabled; and best practices for website development. Information on how to advocate with third-party vendors is particularly helpful, as many library resources are not home grown. There are only a few snippets of code in a section on HTML, so web development knowledge is not essential . . . Useful as a starting point for library staff involved in website development and e-resources, as well as those who want to advocate for all of their patrons.