Libraries, aggregator databases, screen readers and clients with disabilities

Abstract

Three aggregator databases, EBSCOhost, InfoTrac, and First Search Electronic Collections Online (ECO), were analyzed for compliance with the Web accessibility guidelines published by the Web Access Initiative section of the World Wide Web Consortium. A sighted librarian then used each database with JAWS for Windows 3.7, OpenBook 5.0, ZoomText 7.0, and the L&H Kurzweil 1000 and 3000. Results indicate that JAWS for Windows 3.7 works best for the blind, and that ZoomText 7.0 is acceptable for those needing screen magnification. None of the databases tested offers a perfect accessibility option for clients with visual impairment. Conclusions suggest that aggregator databases do not follow the accessibility guidelines and consequently are not supplying accessible products.

Citation

Riley, C.A. (2002), "Libraries, aggregator databases, screen readers and clients with disabilities", Library Hi Tech, Vol. 20 No. 2, pp. 179-187. https://doi.org/10.1108/07378830210432543