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The Right to Information

The Right to Information. Can every Thomasina, Dirk and Harriet get it online from Libraries ? Brian Hardy Vision Australia Foundation. IFLA Manifesto. “Unhindered access to information is essential to freedom, equality, global understanding and peace.”

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The Right to Information

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  1. The Right to Information Can every Thomasina, Dirk and Harriet get it online from Libraries? Brian Hardy Vision Australia Foundation

  2. IFLA Manifesto • “Unhindered access to information is essential to freedom, equality, global understanding and peace.” • Libraries should “provide a mechanism to overcome the barriers created by differences in resources, technology, and training.”

  3. Information Online Libraries facilitate access to online information. They: • Provide public access computers • Make available specialist online resources (e.g. Journals) • Provide support online - for offline resources (e.g. online catalogues)

  4. Overcoming Barriers Libraries provide: • Free access to computers and the • Limited support by staff • Access to community groups to use resources • Some assistive technology But is this enough?

  5. Our Users • Thomasina: Older with some loss of visual acuity. Relatively new to the online world. • Dirk: Has big interest in the web and the information it can provide, but apprehensive about lack of reading skills. • Harriet: Wants to be independent in accessing the information that is important to her. Was an experienced web and library user before a mild stroke left her with motor control problems.

  6. Additional Barriers that T, D and H could face? • Inaccessible design formats • No access to appropriate technology • Lack of training and skills and • Lack of awareness.

  7. Inaccessible Design • Poor code • Bandwidth hungry design • Design for only some users A few examples

  8. No Access to Technology • Not everyone can use a computer in standard configuration • Alternative configuration takes time and expertise • Assistive technology is expensive and needs to be customised for each user

  9. Access to Training and Skill Development • Modified training is needed for people who use assistive technology • Everyone needs opportunities to practice – not readily available (see previous slide)

  10. Confidence to Try • Publicity needed • Positive experiences • Confidence building

  11. What can a Library Do? • Checking accessibility • Tabbing • No images (use Opera) • Basic usability • Making AT available • Large monitor • Maybe trackball, screen reader, magnifier • Enable customisation • Web-4-All?

  12. What else can a Library Do? • Support for training and practice sessions • Supervised come-&-try sessions • Scheduled practice times with volunteers • Links with community training groups • Building community relations and supporting front-line staff • Reach out to older persons and disability groups • Provide resources for front desk staff (time!!!, materials & training)

  13. Further Information Brian Hardy Vision Australia Foundation Mobile: 0419 102 451 Phone: (03) 9864 9525 Email: brian.hardy@visionaustralia.org.au On the CAVAL stand in the Exhibition Hall

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