How Accessibility Statements Create a Better Library User Experience

Sponsored by ProQuest, Part of Clarivate
Recorded on 03/08/2022

Posted in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility (DEIA)

How can accessibility statements help clearly communicate library services to end users?

Summary:

We all know the importance of accessible library services. But accessibility is about more than just investing in accessible products. It’s about communicating how to use library services in a clear, friendly and understandable way. Unfortunately, that communication piece is often missed in accessibility discussions.  

In this session, you will learn how accessibility statements create a better experience for library users and librarians. You’ll hear from UK-based textBOX, one of the world’s leading experts, that helps libraries and vendors write accessibility statements to better communicate features to users.

You’ll also learn:

  1. The value of clear communication for end users who rely on accessibility tools to navigate library resources
  2. How end users use communications to understand how to get the most out of library resources
  3. How a well-written accessibility statement ensures a better user experience

Speakers:

  • Image of Huw Alexander

    Huw Alexander

    Managing DirectortextBOX

    Huw has worked in the publishing industry for 25 years. His passion for promoting accessibility has developed through listening to the stories and issues of users and content providers. Huw is Managing Director of textBOX, a UK-based company providing image description and accessibility services, including the ASPIRE accessibility review service. Huw is a member of the Publishers Association Accessibility Action Group and the Further and Higher Education Digital Accessibility Working Group. He is a regular conference speaker and writer on image description and accessibility issues.

  • Image of Brandy McNamara

    Brandy McNamara

    Director of Product ManagementProQuest, Part of Clarivate

    Brandy’s focus is on Teaching & Learning in the library space. She began her career teaching grammar to middle school students, supporting faculty peers in using the latest classroom technology, and authoring original curriculum materials for OCPS. Before ProQuest, she worked in both the private and public sectors as an instructional designer for online learning and as a product manager of higher-ed courseware.