Assistive Support Through Technologies for Persons with Disabilities in Libraries

Abstract

This paper aims to give a brief about the services provided by libraries to disable library users using software and hardware technologies. In this era, the development of technologies, information and communication technologies, etc., is widespread and being disseminated and published globally. Usually, it is convenient for a library professional to differentiate between individuals in need of assistance. This paper emphasises specialised equipment, technologies, and services that provide a barrier-free environment to the disabled users in libraries and information centres, leading to many technological innovations and advancements for general and disabled persons. This study will be helpful for persons with disabilities, LIS specialists, and other professional communities to provide information about the situation and the variety of assistive technologies available in libraries.

Assistive Technology for Persons with Physical Disabilities: A Literature Review

“…Technology also could help create an equal opportunity and access for learning and access to the curriculum for all (Collinger et al, 2013). Chaurasia & Singh (2022) stated that assistive technology could help people with disabilities meet their needs quickly and effectively. Many organizations have defined assistive technology such as (1) The American Library Association (ALA) defines assistive technology as computer-based technology used to make it compatible with certain types of people, such as the disabled and enhance their potential.…”

Familiarity and understanding of assistive technology among visually impaired users of libraries of special institutes of Haryana, India

“…AT has become increasingly important for VIUs to access library resources and participate in various activities. It was found that AT could provide a barrier-free environment to the VIUs in libraries, and using appropriate AT in libraries could enhance the learning abilities of VIUs (Chaurasia and Singh, 2022; Bhardwaj, 2021). It is observed that most VIUs depend on their respective libraries to fulfil their information needs (Khowaja and Fatima, 2023).…”