SCONUL's 'Access for Library Users with Disabilities'

A new guide aimed at libraries within higher education institutions is published today as part of a drive to ensure equality of access for disabled students across the UK and Ireland. Published by SCONUL - the membership body for UK and Irish higher education and national libraries - the guide sets out how library managers and staff can overcome the physical, attitudinal and behavioural barriers which still impede disabled students.

The number of students in higher education who disclose a disability is increasing, and this guide outlines measures for institutions to develop good practice as-well as clarifying the implications of recent legislation such as the UK's Disability Discrimination Act 2005. The guide, which has been made freely available online, outlines potential sources of financial provision and details how library staff can find the best ways of addressing accessibility issues related to a range of disabilities and differences from autism to visual impairment.

Full text PDF here