Librarians and archivists steward the largest and most comprehensive digital collections at Georgia Tech. Through their work, they play a vital role in ensuring that digital resources — such as archival collections, subscription content, and course reserves — are accessible and usable for all members of the campus community.
Libraries endeavor to provide equitable access to research materials, instructional content, and other services. By integrating accessibility considerations into the selection and delivery of Library resources, librarians help remove barriers to learning and scholarship.
Responsibilities
Because most Georgia Tech Library resources are licensed, vendor-hosted, and include complex media formats, accessibility considerations are multi-faceted and require continuous improvement. The Georgia Tech Library seeks to improve access to digital content through the practices outlined below. Additionally, new workflows and processes are being developed and implemented to meet campus needs.
Library work in these areas include:
Vendor-Provided Platforms and Databases
- Requesting and reviewing accessibility documentation (such as Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates [VPATs] or accessibility conformance reports) for vendor-provided subscription content;
- Working with vendors to address known accessibility gaps and identify remediation timelines when feasible; and
- Discontinuing the use of vendor products that refuse to meet accessibility standards.
Digital Collections
- Providing a pathway for quick remediation of digital archival content, including scanned materials; and
- Committing to the remediation of all digital archival materials while prioritizing high-use materials.
Course Materials
- Providing a pathway for quick remediation of course materials upon student request.
Audio, Video, and Multimedia Content
- Verifying that Library-produced audio and video content includes accurate captions, transcripts, and audio descriptions, as appropriate; and
- Coordinating with vendors to provide accessibility remediation for subscription-based streaming content upon student request.
Discovery Tools
- Ensuring Library-produced websites are navigable using keyboards and assistive technologies;
- Requesting and reviewing accessibility documentation for vendor-provided subscription interfaces and software; and
- Remediating web features to ensure they are perceivable and operable for all users.
User Support and Access Requests
- Providing clear pathways for users to request accessible formats or report accessibility barriers;
- Responding to accessibility concerns in a timely and collaborative manner; and
- Partnering with campus accessibility offices to support users when individual accommodations or alternative access solutions are needed.
Librarians and archivists will help ensure Georgia Tech’s resources and services remain inclusive, usable, and aligned with Title II of the ADA and WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards.