MHollis - Assistive Technologies and How They Change Equitable Access

 

How Do Assistive Technologies Create Equity?

CQ Researcher, 2015

        Assistive technologies play a critical role in creating equity with libraries by ensuring that all patrons, including individuals protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), have equal access to information, education and community resources. Technologies such as screen readers, audio/speech software, magnification devices, adaptive keyboards, audiobooks and captioning services provide great resources to those with physical challenges. These tools transform libraries from simple institutions into inclusive communal spaces where accessibility is prioritized. The CQ article, "The Future of Libraries" emphasizes how modern libraries increasingly rely on technology expand access and remain relevant in the digital age. However, the article also highlights the growing challenge of shrinking budgets and reduced public funding. This creates a major concern for accessibility because assistive technologies are often among the first resources to be threatened amongst budget cuts. Reducing these services drastically harms ADA patrons and threatens the stability of remaining within ALA guidelines (Mantel, 2011). According to their guidelines, libraries have an ethical and professional responsibility to maintain equitable access for all users regardless of circumstances. Accessibility should not be viewed as optional or secondary to other technological investments however, it should be viewed as directly necessary due to these guideline requirements. 

Source:                                                                                                                       CQ Researcher, 2026              

Mantel, B. (2011). Future of libraries. In CQ Researcher.                                                                        

 CQ Press https://doi.org/10.4135/cqresrre20110729