Web Accessibility: Practical Advice for the Library and Information Professional

Citation

McNicol, S. (2008), "Web Accessibility: Practical Advice for the Library and Information Professional", New Library World, Vol. 109 No. 11/12, pp. 591-592. https://doi.org/10.1108/03074800810921421

This book has been written to provide a practical introduction to web accessibility and usability specifically for information professionals. A range of experts and practitioners have contributed to the volume, providing advice about concerns such as Design for All, accessibility evaluation, tools for widening access to the web; and web accessibility in the future. As the editor points out, this topic is an important one because of the increasing provision of resources in electronic formats, as well as greater awareness of the importance of widening access for all.

The first topic to be covered is tools for widening access to the web. E.A. Draffan describes a range of tools, including functions already built into operating systems, such as the ability to enlarge fonts or adapt keyboard and mouse settings, as well as “assistive” technologies such as screen magnification and screen reading.

The next chapter discusses the concept of Design for All, which encourages a web designer to consider the full range of needs and characteristics of the audience. Simon Ball suggests how different mobility, visual, audio, cognitive and technological needs can be met through accessible web design.

The importance of web accessibility, including social, financial, technical and legal factors, is a topic discussed in chapter 4. Here, David Sloan also describes the barriers to accessibility such as perceived cost, lack of legislative clarity and lack of organisational support.

In chapter 5, Julie Howell writes about accessibility advice and guidance. After a brief history of the topic, she outlines some established sources of advice and guidance and suggests ways for keeping up to date with changes in this area. Chapter 6 considers the different methods available to evaluate the access ability of websites, including automated, manual and user techniques.

Following this, Peter Brophy brings together a number of issues directly related to library and information services, such as limited budgets, conflicting demands and staff roles. He sets out a strategy appropriate for the library environment. This chapter also gives an overview of other accessibility issues including digitisation, provision of third party content and the use of Web 2.0 technologies. Following on from this, the issue of training and education for library and information professionals is the focus of chapter 8.

While most of the book concentrates on theory, in chapter 9, a number of examples of good practice are presented alongside outlines of various checklists and guidelines. The final chapter looks to the future as Brian Kelly considers the accessibility of newly emerging technologies, including social networking and other Web 2.0 technologies.

This book will be useful for information studies students and staff, in particular, website managers, as well as being a useful resource for those devising training for staff in accessibility issues. It provides a clear, straightforward overview of web accessibility of issues as they apply to libraries and information services. Written in an approachable style, it would be a useful reference guide for anyone with responsibilities in this area. While the main focus is on UK legislation, many of the guidelines and recommendations are transferable to other countries.