Accessibility

With so many software options available, it can be easy to overlook the tools library staff may already have at their disposal, such as office productivity software like G Suite. Google`s suite of applications (Google Apps) can, with some customization and a bit of coding know-how, create efficiencies for library technology environments ranging from the one-branch public library to the large, resource-rich academic library. These apps offer robust and flexible tools that can be used to accomplish a variety of library-related tasks, at no cost to individual users and at a low cost to institutions. This presentation will demonstrate how library staff can leverage Google Apps to increase accuracy and efficiency, streamline workflows, and manage data. While some prior coding knowledge is useful, we approach this topic from a self-taught and experimental perspective, using real-world examples from a public library (Strathcona County Library) and for an institutional repository at an academic library (the Education and Research Archive at University of Alberta Libraries).

In working with public libraries across Canada, we’ve noticed that libraries that “do accessibility well” have some things in common.
Attached to this Toolshed item are both the slides in PDF format and the script in Word format.

In this session, we’ll look at the ways ingrained Ableism affects our outlook, equipment, and our service to patrons. Focus will be on practical advice to address these concerns, in order to provide better service and a happier workplace.
Learning Objectives:

• Identify how the medical model of disability is pervasive and affects our service negatively
• Understand the Social Model of Disability
• Apply the Social Model to improve service to patrons

Presentation delivered at the Alberta Library Conference 2018 in Jasper, AB.
Communities all over Alberta are seeing an increase in self-represented litigants due to the recession and the high cost of legal representation. This means that more people are coming to libraries to access information about the law and their legal rights. Like libraries, public legal education organizations like CPLEA work to provide the public with reliable sources of information. Searching for legal information tends to be very reaction-driven (i.e. my landlord is evicting me; my partner and I are separating, etc.). By standing together, we can empower Albertans to know and assert their rights before a legal dispute arises. For more information about the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA) or to access free legal information resources, visit www.cplea.ca.