Book Description

Visually impaired people have the same information needs as sighted people. Just as sighted people might read a newspaper, listen to a CD or download electronic information from the Internet, visually impaired people also want access to relevant information in their chosen accessible format. Developing an efficient library service for print-disabled people is extremely important, because there are significantly fewer books available commercially in accessible formats compared to what is published in print for the general public. The need to build collections in alternative formats and make them available for readers who are unable to browse shelves makes it necessary to develop special services. The purpose of these guidelines is to provide libraries, governments, and other stakeholders with a framework for developing library services for people who are print disabled. Where appropriate the guidelines are supported by examples from many countries around the world. For purposes of these guidelines, print disabled will be used to describe those who are unable to read print due to blindness, low vision, a learning disability, or a physical disability. Following the preface, the 10 chapters contained herein are: (1) Introduction; (2) History; (3) The Framework for Service; (4) Customer Care: Meeting User Needs; (5) Cooperation and Networking; (6) Collection Development; (7) Access to Service and Collections; (8) Production of Alternative Formats; (9) Management and Marketing; and (10) Quality Assurance. Appended are: (1) IFLA Declaration of Fundamental Right to Access and Express Information; and (2) Guidelines for Library Service to Braille Users. This volume also includes a glossary.