This presentation reflects on some individual and collaborative efforts to improve library discovery experiences for users with disabilities in Ontario universities. A catalyzing event was when a blind user reported a problem with Primo VE, which resulted in numerous other issues being reported. Arising from this was the formation of a consortial accessibility working group to proactively identify and remove obstacles in Primo VE. The group has tried to achieve this through an intra-consortial accessibility fellowship, creating a consortial accessibility monitoring table, and hosting Accessibility Bridge meetings. The bridge meetings have since brought together over 250 attendees from libraries, library consortia, and even Ex Libris. This presentation describes these activities, critical elements, shortcomings, and suggested steps forward. Attendees will be invited to share their efforts to create a more accessible library experience for users with disabilities.
Orchestra C/D Ex Libris Knowledge Days and ELUNA Events 2024 eluna-conf-planning@exlibrisusers.orgThis presentation reflects on some individual and collaborative efforts to improve library discovery experiences for users with disabilities in Ontario universities. A catalyzing event was when a blind user reported a problem with Primo VE, which resulted in numerous other issues being reported. Arising from this was the formation of a consortial accessibility working group to proactively identify and remove obstacles in Primo VE. The group has tried to achieve this through an intra-consortial accessibility fellowship, creating a consortial accessibility monitoring table, and hosting Accessibility Bridge meetings. The bridge meetings have since brought together over 250 attendees from libraries, library consortia, and even Ex Libris. This presentation describes these activities, critical elements, shortcomings, and suggested steps forward. Attendees will be invited to share their efforts to create a more accessible library experience for users with disabilities.