DEFINING ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO LIBRARIES - By Cherilee Olmstead

Assistive Technology (AT) is “any product, equipment, and system either specifically designed and produced or generally available that enhances functioning, and independence, and ultimately promotes the well-being of people with disabilities” (Margot-Cattin et al. 1) This is an important area to address within a library setting, because the mission of libraries is to create a public space where members of the community can feel welcome, accepted and also have access to materials. Glendora Public Library’s mission statement includes “to enrich the community by connecting people to the world of ideas, information, and imagination to support their work, education, personal growth, and enjoyment.” If AT’s goal is to encourage independence and promote well-being of people with disabilities, and libraries desire to support education and personal growth through connecting people with information – it stands to reason that AT and libraries work hand in hand. This is especially important because according to the World Health Organization (WHO), “over 2.5 billion individuals require AT, a number expected to rise to over 3.5 billion by 2050 due to aging populations as well as the increased proportion of individuals living with chronic illness” (Margo-Cattin et al. 2)

It is essential that libraries embrace AT to ensure library users with disabilities have the same opportunities as other library users. A disability is defined as “any form of impairment or limitation placed on an individual's normal functioning…we understand limitation as the multiple barriers that limit [student] learning and participation”. (Fernández-Batanero et. al.) Some AT is considered low technology such as magnifiers, pencil holding devices and screen readers are relatively easy for libraries to have available. However, high technologies such as items with programming like computers, electronic communication boards and such, come at a high expense. Libraries need to consider availability of AT compared to need of the community it serves. Libraries also need to consider the cost of AT and what types of AT they can afford to bring into their library. And finally, adequate training for library staff to maximize the benefit of the procured AT.

Libraries succeed in reducing barriers by providing free internet access with library staff trained in troubleshooting basic technology concerns. Many libraries also offer mobile learning with the use of borrowing iPads for the duration of their time in the library, which can have relevant apps/equipment added to them, like screen readers, so that the library user is independent of assistance. In addition to this, computers have built-in prompts after user has signed in that display AT settings, such as change in font size, background color and display features to cater for those with disabilities. In a recent visit to a local academic library in my hometown (Azua Pacific University), I saw several computers set up for AT users with an a-typical keyboard, screen reader and signage listing that specific computer’s capabilities. It was a hopeful sight, and yet not all academic or public libraries have the same funding available as this private university and therefore not every library is equal in eliminating barriers in equal measure.

We must continue to talk about AT benefits and the rising need for them. It is only by advocating for others and for these needs that we can make our communities aware of the improvements that need to be made and the importance of community voices being heard.

“Why everything you know about autism is wrong” is another Ted Talk by Dr. Jac den Houting explaining how typical community environments do not work the social needs of an atypical person. She says that she is actively being disabled by environment, because environment does not care for her personal needs as someone who is autistic (or anyone with disabilities that are not just physical).

 

Works Cited:

 

Fernández-Batanero, José María, et al. “Assistive Technology for the Inclusion of Students with Disabilities: A Systematic Review.” Educational Technology Research and Development [New York], vol. 70, no. 5, October 2022, pp. 1911–30, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11423-022-10127-7.

 

Houting, Jac den. “Why everything you know about Autism is wrong.” YouTube, uploaded by TEDx Talks, 1 Nov 2019, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1AUdaH-EPM

 

Margot-Cattin, Isabel, et al. “Worldwide Survey on Digital Assistive Technology (DAT) Provision.” Occupational Therapy International [England], edited by Stefania Costi, vol. 2024, no. 1, 2024, p. 9536020, https://doi.org/10.1155/2024/9536020.

 

“Public Library” Glendora Public Library, 9 April. 2026, https://www.cityofglendora.gov/Explore/Public-Library.