Creating a Community-Centered Library for Individuals with Print Disabilities: A Blueprint and a Challenge
Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities and the Inclusive Future of Libraries
ISBN: 978-1-78560-653-3, eISBN: 978-1-78560-652-6
Publication date: 14 December 2015
Abstract
Purpose
This chapter lays out the blueprint the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped followed in meeting the expectations of readers with print disabilities. The chapter also discusses the challenges both state and local public libraries face in meeting the current and future expectations of these clients and presents a scenario of a hybrid service in which state and local public libraries work together to meet client expectations.
Methodology/approach
Reports the process and strategies the library used to reinvent itself as a community-centered institution. Presents possible approaches for a collaborative, inclusive library service by state/federal sponsored and public libraries.
Findings
The Maryland Library successfully met client expectation through creating a community-centered library. Public libraries offer many inclusive services that, combined with the specialized service of a state/federally sponsored library, could provide equitable information access for clients with diverse, individual information needs.
Originality/value
This case study presents a successful library service for a complex, continually changing client population and proposes collaborative partnerships for special and local public libraries.
Keywords
Citation
Lewis, J. (2015), "Creating a Community-Centered Library for Individuals with Print Disabilities: A Blueprint and a Challenge", Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities and the Inclusive Future of Libraries (Advances in Librarianship, Vol. 40), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 59-72. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0065-283020150000040012
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2015 Emerald Group Publishing Limited