Accessible by design: Library Search at the University of the Arts London

Abstract

This brief case study, originally presented as a breakout session by Sandra Reed and Sara Osman at the UKSG Annual Conference in April 2016,1 outlines how the University of the Arts London put accessibility at the centre of its new open source library catalogue ‘Library Search’. It discusses how accessibility and inclusive design were prioritized throughout the initial discovery process and during engagement with students and other stakeholders, and how our requirement for accessibility was enhanced by the procurement method chosen. The article also considers how practical elements of good, accessible design are an integral part of the new interface. Our broader service offer and plans for the future are also included.

Keywords

• accessibility, open-source, koha, inclusive design, LMS