The use and promotion of adapted books in Norwegian public libraries

Abstract

Public libraries offer a large selection of books. For many library users, one of the highlights of the library visit is to explore this collection in search of interesting books that will provide enriching literary experiences. For some people, however, mainstream books might not be motivating to read, for instance, due to reading impairments, language challenges or inaccessible content. Consequently, most libraries also hold a collection of ‘special books’. In Norway, one example of such a collection is the books developed by the association Books for Everyone. This article explores the organization and promotion of adapted books in Norwegian libraries and is based on two datasets. The first dataset comprises the complete production by Books for Everyone, consisting of 232 titles. These books were examined to get an overview of the material commonly found in Norwegian public libraries, with a focus on the allocation of adaptation types and target groups. This dataset showed a diverse collection of books in six different categories. The majority was in the category ‘Easy to Read’, targeted at a broad variety of user groups. The second dataset consisted of survey data from 178 libraries regarding their organization and promotion of the Books for Everyone collection. The data revealed differences in how public libraries utilize these books, due to, for instance, a lack of knowledge about adapted books and potential target groups. Moreover, for many libraries, these books were regarded as ‘special books’ and were consequently not included in exhibitions or book talks. It may be necessary to pay more attention towards adapted literature in the library community and provide more knowledge about this literature among librarians. The overall purpose of this article is to provide some advice to librarians and other practitioners on how to deal with adapted books in a public library context.

Only as Special as Necessary: Adapted Books in a Universal Design Perspective

“…This approach can be related to the concept accessibility. In contrast, 'adapted book' can also refer to the process of developing books where modifications have been incorporated from the beginning and throughout the production of the original book [14]. Consequently, this approach results in one version of the book rather than one mainstream version and one adapted edition, which is in accordance with the universal design paradigm.…”

“…In some contexts, it might therefore be more purposeful to apply the term "reading challenges" over "reading disabilities". Moreover, it has been argued that it might be more purposeful to apply the universal design paradigm than the accessibility mode of thought in the development and production of adapted books [14].…”

“…It is probable that such awards make more potential readers aware of these books and shows that adapted books can hold high quality while at the same time be accessible for people with reading challenges. It may also increase interest if these books are incorporated in book exhibitions and book talks at the library [14].…”