December 21, 2021

Celebrating a Win for Equity!

The University of Washington Libraries Accessibility Working Group is pleased to share that accessibility tools are now available to improve equity of access to library resources and services for users with disabilities. Many thanks to the Friends of the Libraries for making this possible with their generous contribution!

Fourteen libraries now have an accessibility toolkit with valuable resources for on-site use, including:

Lapboards

Lapboards can be placed on the lap or across the arms of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. Lapboards effectively provide a desktop space for a mouse and keyboard (or laptop) while improving reach and comfort for individuals with whom using a standard desk is impractical.

Large-type, high contrast keyboards

The large-type, high-contrast keyboards assist individuals with low vision by reducing eye strain while making their time more productive and enjoyable. These keyboards make typing easier for those lacking fine motor skills by eliminating multi-function key necessity and larger key size. Currently, there are only 5 available keyboards at select locations. However, due to a generous donation from a few individual board members keyboards will be available in all the toolkits in early 2022.

Pocket-hearing loop

Individuals who use hearing aids or telecoil-equipped cochlear implants may struggle with noise, feedback, or speech comprehension. Pocket loops are like a “headset”, and any device that can be used with a headset may be used with this device to assist in improving one-on-one communications. Each kit contains one pocket hearing loop to help facilitate communication in the library.

Wide 2x magnifier bars 

These magnifiers can be used to scan over pages of writing and enhance the size of text to help reduce eye strain caused by small print.

Trackball mice 

Trackball mice are highly useful tools to help those with dexterity and fine motor skill impairments, including carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis. This mouse allows people to use differing or less muscles in their hands and wrists.

Disposable noise-reduction earplugs 

Disposable earplugs are useful for those with cognitive or learning disabilities. Earplugs allow for more focused concentration in spaces with additional noise.

These items were selected after consulting with both the UW Disability Resources for Students office and the Seattle Public Library, to identify which pieces of equipment would provide the best options for library users. Having the opportunity to place accessibility toolkits in these locations improves the quality of the student, faculty, staff, and visitor learning experience across the Libraries — no matter where they choose to work, resources will be available.

Further details are available on the Accessibility at the Libraries: Technology webpage. Please also feel free to bookmark that webpage to stay up to date with the Accessibility Working Group’s news and initiatives to improve equity of access to information, services, and resources.