26 July 2010

Labor promises improved digital access in public libraries for people with print disabilities

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The Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) welcomes the announcement from the Australian Labor Party for $1 million to be provided for digital playback devices and improved access to digital content in public libraries.

On 24 July 2010 the Gillard Labor Government announced three new initiatives to support people with disability and their carers to participate in community life.

One of these initiatives recognises the role of Australia’s 1,522 public libraries in providing opportunities for all Australians to participate in the economic and social life of our country, and in Australia’s digital future.

"Public libraries have long recognised and met the needs of the population with disabilities with a range of services including mobile libraries, home library services, and targeted materials such as large print and audio books, and assistive technology,” said Margaret Allen, Vice-president of the Association.

"ALIA believes that access to the internet, and particularly to broadband, is an extremely important enabler for the delivery of better health, education, and community services," said Ms Allen. "Labor's initiative will help to bridge the digital divide by providing improved access to digital resources in public libraries for people with print disabilities".

"ALIA has recently identified the key challenges for public libraries in providing services and equipment for people with print disabilities," she added. "These include the availability of content (books, magazines and newspapers in suitable formats) and the provision and maintenance of the appropriate assistive technology."

"At the same time, it is important to provide ongoing staff training and resources for this equipment so that the most effective assistance can be offered. These resources, together with equipment and content, would also facilitate socially inclusive activities such as book clubs."

ALIA and its members call on all political parties to indicate additional funding support for public libraries.

ENDS