Efforts by disability rights advocates have significantly advanced the development of accessibility metadata both in publisher and library-based standards. These concerted efforts have brought the stars into closer alignment, allowing us to more fully imagine how information about accessibility features may flow from creators into library discovery services. This alignment is crucial for ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access the information they need from libraries without unnecessary barriers. This panel invites thought leaders in the area of accessibility metadata to imagine the potential for beneficiary communities, the risks of inaction, and what steps we can take to make the future we want. By bringing together experts from the field, we aim to explore the transformative potential of well-implemented accessibility metadata. Without continued progress and commitments, we risk perpetuating the exclusion of disabled individuals from vital information resources – affecting education, employment, and overall quality of life. To mitigate these risks, the panel will outline actionable steps that stakeholders can take to ensure a more inclusive future. This includes advocating for the adoption of standardized accessibility metadata, fostering collaboration between publishers and libraries, and promoting awareness of the importance of accessibility in emerging practices.
Tuesday February 11, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm EST
Waterview CD
