With contributions from researchers, educators, and practitioners from across a range of fields, this volume will be an important resource for library professionals in all types of libraries as well as a reference for researchers and educators about the efforts, challenges and opportunities related to the inclusive future of libraries.

As a provider of public space and digital content, your library is duty-bound to promote equitable access to all users, regardless of whether they use assistive technology. In this issue of Library Technology Reports, editor Booth makes the case that that attention to the core principles of consistency, flexibility, and simplicity go hand in hand with libraries’ commitments to open information and accessibility. Even when staffing levels or resources aren't ideal, libraries can substantially improve the experience of people with disabilities. In this issue, expert contributors address standards, spaces and services, devices, websites, and collections, offering advice on Assistive technology products, including screen readers, literacy software, and speech input E-books and e-readers for users with print disabilities, with charts comparing accessibility features of the most common e-readers The nuts and bolts of using HTML, CSS, Javascript, or JQUERY for accessibility Best practices for evaluating vendor database compliance

As libraries transition into the digital age, they encounter a pressing challenge: outdated information systems hinder their ability to meet the diverse needs of patrons. Traditional library management systems struggle to cope with the demands of modern users, resulting in inefficient resource allocation, limited accessibility, and disjointed user experiences. This disconnect between antiquated systems and evolving user expectations poses a significant barrier to libraries striving to remain relevant in an increasingly digital world. Improving Library Systems with AI: Applications, Approaches, and Bibliometric Insights presents a comprehensive solution to this pressing problem. By integrating modern digital tools and technologies, libraries can revolutionize their information systems, enhancing accessibility, efficiency, and user satisfaction. This book offers practical insights and strategies for modernizing library services and operations, from digitizing physical resources to implementing advanced search algorithms and data analytics. Librarians, administrators, and technology providers will find invaluable guidance on navigating the complexities of digital transformation and maximizing the impact of their efforts.

More than 6.5 million children in the US receive special education services; in any given community, approximately one child out of every six will get speech therapy, go to counseling, attend classes exclusively with other children with disabilities, or receive some other service that allows him or her to learn. This new revised edition is a step-by-step guide to serving children and youth with disabilities as well as the family members, caregivers, and other people involved in their lives. The authors show how staff can enable full use of the library’s resources by integrating the methods of educators, medical and psychological therapists, social workers, librarians, parents, and other caregivers. Widening the scope to address the needs of teens as well as preschool and school-age children, this edition also discusses the needs of Spanish-speaking children with disabilities and their families, looking at cultural competency as well as Spanish-language resources. Enhanced with checklists, stories based on real experiences, descriptions of model programs and resources, and an overview of appropriate internet sites and services, this how-to gives thorough consideration to Partnering and collaborating with parents and other professionals Developing special collections and resources Assessing competencies and skills Principles underlying family-centered services and resource-based practices The interrelationship of early intervention, special education, and library service This manual will prove valuable not only to children’s services librarians, outreach librarians, and library administrators, but also early intervention and family support professionals, early childhood and special educators, childcare workers, daycare and after school program providers, and policymakers.