Improving Access to Public Libraries

Initiative Description

INDATA collaborated with the Indianapolis Public Library to improve access to services and materials for persons of all abilities by implementing assistive technology workstations in each branch (25 total). Activities during this project included branch site visits, staff conversations, online surveys, disability and assistive technology training, etc. 

Lessons Learned/Replication

Outcomes of this collaboration include staff being better able to meet patron needs (ex. low vision, mobility, learning differences, etc.) and patrons benefiting from increased access to services and materials. A simple, intuitive referral mechanism is also being developed to improve the coordination of referrals between the library and INDATA's demo and lending library.  Also, patron accessibility guides are being developed to improve public awareness around helpful tools, features, and apps for mobile devices. 

Initiative contact information

Brian Norton
bnorton@eastersealscrossroads.org