Integrated Accessibility Standard

Information and Communications

Within in the disability community, there is a large discussion around how many organizations are not in compliance with the AODA customer service standard and have not begun planning for compliance with the Integrated Accessibility Standard.  I thought I would review each of the questions to help you ensure you are in compliance.  I am discussing the requirements for the Integrated Accessibility Standard.  Please let me know how far in compliance you are.

Public libraries

19. (1) Every obligated organization that is a library board shall provide access to or arrange for the provision of access to accessible materials where they exist.

(2) Obligated organizations that are library boards shall make information about the availability of accessible materials publicly available and shall provide the information in accessible format or with appropriate communication supports, upon request.

(3) Obligated organizations that are library boards may provide accessible formats for archival materials, special collections, rare books and donations.

(4) Obligated organizations that are library boards shall meet the requirements of this section by January 1, 2013.

What does it look like for you to check yes to this question??

Libraries of educational and training institutions will be required to provide, procure or otherwise acquire an accessible or conversion ready format of print, digital or multimedia resources or materials, upon request. This requirement does not apply to special collections, archival materials, rare books or donations.

Public libraries will be required to provide access to, or arrange for, the provision of access to accessible materials where they exist, make information about the availability of accessible materials publicly available, and provide that information in an accessible format or with appropriate communication supports upon request. They may (but are not required to) provide accessible formats for archival materials, special collections, rare books and donations.

Why is this requirement so important to the public?

This requirement speaks to serving the needs of both visible and invisible disabilities.  Remember that people with intellectual or learning disabilities need to have different access to printed materials. 

Here are some tips on how to interact with people with a learning disability.

* Patience and a willingness to find a way to communicate are your best tools.

* Speak normally and clearly, and directly to the person.


* Take some time — people with some kinds of learning disabilities may take a little longer to understand and
respond.

* Try to find ways to provide information in a way that works best for them.

* Be courteous and patient. The person will let you know how to best provide service in a way that works for them.

I believe that this is necessary for some but a benefit for all.  Can you think of ways this may help you access information from libraries?

Is there anything else that could be done to ensure that a compliance with this requirement?

If you are interested in learning more about Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) or how to make accessibility a natural part of your business through the application of Corporate Social Responsibility, please contact Sandra Broekhof @ 416-579-1035 or sandra_broekhof@sympatico.ca or visit www.accessibilitycompliance.ca