Creating a Community-Centered Library for Individuals with Print Disabilities: A Blueprint and a Challenge

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.

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