The Right to Information

Can every Thomasina, Dirk and Harriet get it online from Libraries?

Brian Hardy

Vision Australia Foundation

IFLA Manifesto

• “Unhindered access to information is essential to freedom, equality, global understanding and peace.”

• Libraries should “provide a mechanism to overcome the barriers created by differences in resources, technology, and training.”

Information Online

Libraries facilitate access to online information. They:

• Provide public access computers • Make available specialist online

resources (e.g. Journals)• Provide support online - for offline

resources (e.g. online catalogues)

Overcoming Barriers

Libraries provide:• Free access to computers and the • Limited support by staff• Access to community groups to

use resources • Some assistive technology

But is this enough?

Our Users• Thomasina: Older with some loss of visual

acuity. Relatively new to the online world.• Dirk: Has big interest in the web and the

information it can provide, but apprehensive about lack of reading skills.

• Harriet: Wants to be independent in accessing the information that is important to her. Was an experienced web and library user before a mild stroke left her with motor control problems.

Additional Barriers that T, D and H could face?

• Inaccessible design formats• No access to appropriate

technology• Lack of training and skills

and

• Lack of awareness.

Inaccessible Design

• Poor code• Bandwidth hungry design• Design for only some users

A few examples

No Access to Technology

• Not everyone can use a computer in standard configuration

• Alternative configuration takes time and expertise

• Assistive technology is expensive and needs to be customised for each user

Access to Training and Skill Development

• Modified training is needed for people who use assistive technology

• Everyone needs opportunities to practice – not readily available (see previous slide)

Confidence to Try

• Publicity needed• Positive experiences• Confidence building

What can a Library Do?

• Checking accessibility– Tabbing– No images (use Opera)– Basic usability

• Making AT available– Large monitor– Maybe trackball, screen reader, magnifier– Enable customisation– Web-4-All?

What else can a Library Do?• Support for training and practice sessions

– Supervised come-&-try sessions– Scheduled practice times with volunteers– Links with community training groups

• Building community relations and supporting front-line staff– Reach out to older persons and disability groups– Provide resources for front desk staff (time!!!,

materials & training)

Further Information

Brian HardyVision Australia FoundationMobile: 0419 102 451Phone: (03) 9864 9525Email: brian.hardy@visionaustralia.org.au

On the CAVAL stand in the Exhibition Hall