According to the American Library Association, an accessible resource is one that can be operated in a variety of ways and does not rely on a single sense or ability of the user.
Accessibility is making your data understandable by all users, considering users with special needs and abilities such as:
Blind, Colorblind, and Low Vision Users
On the Library Website
While building our new website, we’ve taken care to build in screen reader tips, make our links easily readable by screens for users that go through a list of links, check contrast in colors on the website, and provide a plugin for greater contrast and text size on the desktop version of the website.
Please contact us if you have difficulty with the website.
In the Libraries
Resources
Modern browsers have zoom and contrast options built and and most have add-ons available for screen readers. The American Foundation for the Blind has a list of browser based accessibility features.
Additionally there are computer based screen reader software, such as the free, open source NVDA Screen Reader for windows.
New Android and Apple devices also come with built in screen readers.
Operating your Android Device by Touch from the American Foundation for the Blind.
Apple’s Accessibility page outlines their accessibility features across MacOS and iOS.
Low-Tech and Low-Mobility Users
On the Library Website
The website is navigable by keyboard controls, such as pressing the tab button to cycle through links on a page as well as menus. Additionally the website was designed to have pages be accessed in multiple ways. Additionally library staff is able to assist patrons in finding any information available on the website.
In the Libraries
We can provide tech help in the library on our library computers as well as by appointment for personal devices. Please see our Receive Computer & Device Help page for more information on tech appointments.
Accessible Library Resources
Materials in the Library
Audiobooks – CD
These allow patrons who have low vision, low mobility, or difficulty holding items to read books.
Audiobook – Playaway
These allow patrons who have low vision, low mobility, or difficulty holding items to read books.
Large Print materials
These materials are presented in a larger font and can reduce eye strain and allow users with low vision to read books.
Online & Remote Materials
Overdrive/Libby Audiobooks
These allow patrons who have low mobility or difficulty holding items to read books.
You can learn more about Overdrive and Libby Accessibility on Overdrive’s Accessibility Page
Idaho Talking Book Service
Nothing should stop you from reading! Audiobooks and magazines can be loaned free to any Idaho resident who is unable to read standard print due to low-vision, blindness, or a physical, perceptual or reading disability.
Provided by the Idaho Commission for Libraries
