Accessibility And Universal Design For Library Resources Training Course

Introduction

Ensure equitable access to information for all users with our essential Accessibility and Universal Design for Library Resources Training Course. This program equips library professionals with the fundamental principles and practical techniques to create and curate library resources that are inclusive and usable by individuals with diverse abilities and learning styles. Mastering accessibility and universal design is increasingly vital for libraries seeking to uphold principles of equity, comply with accessibility standards, and provide truly inclusive services in both physical and digital environments. Our library accessibility training course offers in-depth strategies and actionable insights for creating universally designed library resources.

This Accessibility and Universal Design for Library Resources training delves into the core concepts of universal design for learning (UDL), web content accessibility guidelines (WCAG), accessible document creation, inclusive design for physical spaces, assistive technologies, evaluating resource accessibility, and developing accessibility policies. You will gain expertise in understanding the needs of diverse users, applying UDL principles to instructional materials, creating accessible digital content, evaluating the accessibility of existing resources, and advocating for inclusive design practices within your library. Whether you are a public services librarian, digital resources librarian, instruction librarian, or library administrator, this Accessibility and Universal Design for Library Resources course will empower you to create and promote truly accessible library resources for everyone.

Target Audience:

• Public Services Librarians
• Digital Resources Librarians
• Instruction Librarians
• Library Administrators
• Web Librarians
• Technical Services Librarians
• Library Staff Involved in Resource Creation

Course Objectives:

• Understand the core principles of Accessibility and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in libraries.
• Master the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for digital resources.
• Develop skills in creating accessible documents (e.g., PDFs, Word).
• Apply universal design principles to the creation of library resources.
• Understand the role and application of assistive technologies used by library patrons.
• Learn how to evaluate the accessibility of existing library resources.
• Develop strategies for implementing and advocating for accessibility policies in libraries.

DURATION

5 Days

Course Content:

Module 1: Foundations of Accessibility and Universal Design

• Understanding the core principles of Accessibility and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in libraries.
• Exploring the social model of disability and its implications for library services.
• Defining key terms: accessibility, universal design, inclusive design.
• Understanding the benefits of accessible and universally designed resources for all users.
• Best practices for embedding accessibility and universal design principles in library work.

Module 2: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

• Mastering the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for digital resources.
• Understanding the four principles of WCAG: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust.
• Applying WCAG success criteria to website content and functionality.
• Utilizing tools and techniques for evaluating website accessibility.
• Best practices for creating WCAG-compliant library websites and online resources.

Module 3: Creating Accessible Documents

• Developing skills in creating accessible documents (e.g., PDFs, Word).
• Understanding the principles of accessible document structure and formatting.
• Adding alternative text to images and other non-text elements.
• Ensuring proper heading structures and table accessibility.
• Best practices for creating accessible digital documents for library users.

Module 4: Universal Design Principles for Library Resources

• Applying universal design principles to the creation of library resources.
• Understanding the seven principles of universal design and their application in libraries.
• Designing flexible resources that cater to diverse learning styles and abilities.
• Providing multiple means of representation, action and expression, and engagement.
• Best practices for creating universally designed physical and digital library resources.

Module 5: Assistive Technologies in the Library Context

• Understanding the role and application of assistive technologies used by library patrons.
• Exploring screen readers, magnifiers, speech-to-text software, and other tools.
• Considering the compatibility of library resources with assistive technologies.
• Providing support and guidance to patrons using assistive technologies.
• Best practices for ensuring library resources are compatible with assistive technologies.

Module 6: Evaluating Resource Accessibility

• Learning how to evaluate the accessibility of existing library resources.
• Utilizing accessibility checklists and evaluation tools.
• Conducting user testing with individuals with disabilities.
• Identifying common accessibility barriers in library resources.
• Best practices for assessing and improving the accessibility of library collections and services.

Module 7: Implementing and Advocating for Accessibility Policies

• Developing strategies for implementing and advocating for accessibility policies in libraries.
• Understanding relevant legislation and accessibility standards (e.g., ADA).
• Creating institutional accessibility policies and guidelines.
• Raising awareness and providing training on accessibility best practices.
• Best practices for fostering a culture of accessibility and inclusion within the library.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.