Equitable public library services for Canadians with print disabilities

Abstract

Purpose

CELA, the Centre for Equitable Library Access, is a national not-for-profit organization whose mission is to support public libraries in providing accessible collections for Canadians with print disabilities and to champion the fundamental right of Canadians with print disabilities to access media and reading materials in the format of their choice. This paper aims to examine the history of the organization, the events that led to its creation, the issues with which it has and continues to struggle with – political, technological, structural – and the successes it has enjoyed.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a case study intended shine light on the development of a service sorely lacking in Canadian public libraries – consistent and sustainable publicly funded access to reading materials for Canadians with print disabilities – by providing related history and context and outlining current and future offerings.

Findings

The decision to centralize a service that most public libraries struggled to deliver within their own capacities was wise and has greatly benefited Canadians with print disabilities.

Originality/value

This paper provides a profile in determination, collaboration and the value of inclusivity in public libraries.

Citation

Ciccone, M. (2018), "Equitable public library services for Canadians with print disabilities", Reference Services Review, Vol. 46 No. 3, pp. 379-398. https://doi.org/10.1108/RSR-04-2018-0041