As a library director, you’re already managing technology upgrades, staff, and community engagement—but now, a significant compliance change is approaching. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has introduced new regulations under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), mandating that all public libraries ensure digital accessibility for individuals with disabilities. These updates mean your library’s website, mobile apps, online catalogs, and digital resources must meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA standards.
These new requirements go into effect soon:
- Libraries serving populations of 50,000 or more must be fully compliant by April 24, 2026.
- Libraries serving under 50,000 people have until April 24, 2027.
Compliance isn’t just about avoiding legal trouble—it’s about ensuring that all patrons, regardless of ability, have equal access to your digital resources. If your library hasn’t started preparing, now is the time to take action.
What Digital Accessibility Means for Libraries
ADA compliance in the digital space means ensuring that all patrons, including those with visual, auditory, cognitive, and mobility disabilities, can access your online resources. Compliance involves several key areas:
1. Website Accessibility
Library websites must adhere to WCAG 2.1 AA standards. This means:
- Text must be resizable and readable for users with visual impairments.
- Color contrast must be sufficient for readability.
- Pages should be navigable via keyboard-only access.
- Images must include alt text for screen readers.
2. Mobile App Compliance
If your library offers a mobile app, it must:
- Be compatible with screen readers and voice control features.
- Have clear navigation with accessible menus.
- Avoid complex gestures that are difficult for users with mobility impairments.
3. Digital Document Accessibility
Your PDFs, Word documents, and other digital materials should:
- Be formatted to work with screen readers.
- Include proper heading structures and descriptive links.
- Use accessible fonts and high-contrast color schemes.
4. Multimedia Accessibility
Any video or audio content must include:
- Closed captions for all videos.
- Transcripts for audio recordings.
- Audio descriptions where necessary for visual elements.
5. Navigation & Online Forms
Library catalogs, event registrations, and research databases must:
- Be structured for keyboard-only navigation.
- Include clear labels and instructions for assistive technology users.
- Be tested regularly for usability with screen readers.
By meeting these requirements, your library will provide a more inclusive experience while also staying compliant with the law.
Challenges Libraries May Face in Achieving Compliance
While the benefits of digital accessibility are clear, achieving compliance can be challenging. Many libraries may struggle with:
Limited IT Resources
Smaller libraries may not have dedicated IT teams, making it difficult to conduct accessibility audits, implement changes, or troubleshoot compliance issues. In these cases, outsourcing to a trusted IT partner can be a practical solution.
Budget Constraints
Upgrading digital infrastructure can be costly. Libraries should explore:
- Grant funding opportunities for accessibility initiatives.
- Free or low-cost accessibility tools, such as browser extensions and automated checkers.
- Phased implementation plans to spread costs over multiple budget cycles.
Keeping Up with Evolving Standards
ADA accessibility guidelines are continually updated. Libraries need to:
- Stay informed about WCAG updates.
- Regularly audit and update their digital platforms.
- Train staff on best practices for accessible content creation.
Steps to Ensure Your Library Meets ADA Compliance
The sooner you begin preparing, the smoother the transition will be. Here are the critical steps for compliance:
1. Conduct a Digital Accessibility Audit
Start by assessing your current level of compliance. Free tools like AccessibleWeb can scan your website and identify accessibility gaps. If major issues are found, consider hiring an accessibility expert to perform a detailed audit.
2. Work with IT and Vendors
If your website or catalog system is managed by a third-party vendor, reach out to them to confirm their compliance plans. Ensure that any new software or platforms your library adopts meet ADA standards. If you need expert guidance, AVC can assist with compliance assessments and technology solutions.
3. Implement Accessibility Tools
There are several software solutions that can help with compliance, such as:
- UserWay (for WordPress sites) – Adds accessibility widgets.
- WAVE – Evaluates web content for WCAG compliance.
- NVDA – A free screen reader to test your site’s usability.
4. Train Staff on Digital Accessibility
Library staff should understand:
- How to create accessible documents and web content.
- How to assist patrons using screen readers or other assistive technology.
- How to review online resources for compliance before adding them to your website.
5. Stay Engaged with ADA Webinars and Training
Stay informed through industry events and training opportunities. The Indiana State Library Webinar on ADA compliance (March 19, 2025) is a great place to start. AVC will also be hosting a summer webinar on ADA compliance to provide further guidance.