Introducing the Accessibility Assessment Framework

The Public Library Accessibility Working Group is pleased to announce the launch of the Accessibility Assessment Framework for Libraries—a new set of practical resources created to help libraries strengthen accessibility across their spaces and services.

About the Framework

The framework introduces clear guiding principles and three dimensions of accessibility—physical, sensory, and social-emotional. Together, they support library teams in better understanding and anticipating the diverse needs of patrons and staff with disabilities.

Alongside the framework, we’ve launched two supporting resources designed for hands-on use:

• Library Accessibility Assessment Tool which helps identify barriers in physical library spaces
• Library Accessibility Assessment Activity Book which includes guided group activities to support staff learning and application

Video

You can also watch a short introduction video featuring the BC Libraries Cooperative’s Executive Director, Kevin Millsip. A transcript with visual descriptions is available in both Word and PDF formats.

Download the video transcript with visual descriptions (PDF)

Download the video transcript with visual descriptions (Word)

All resources are now available on our website, and we invite library teams to explore them, use them, and adapt them to their local context.

Thank You

The Public Libraries Accessibility Working Group (PLAWG) would like to thank the Disability Alliance of British Columbia (DABC) and the Province of British Columbia for providing the funding that made this project possible. We are thankful to Untapped Accessibility for their partnership in the development of this tool, and to the many library staff and community members who contributed to and inspired the creation of this resource.