Creating accessible Web sites: an introduction

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Electronic Library, The

ISSN: 0264-0473

Online from: 1983

Subject Area: Library and Information Studies

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Document Information:
Title:	Creating accessible Web sites: an introduction
Author(s):	Erica B. Lilly, (Erica B. Lilly is Coordinator of Electronic Information Services, Libraries and Media Services, Kent State University, Ohio, USA.)
Citation:	Erica B. Lilly, (2001) "Creating accessible Web sites: an introduction", Electronic Library, The, Vol. 19 Iss: 6, pp.397 - 405
Keywords:	Information superhighway, Information technology, World Wide Web
Article type:	Technical paper
DOI:	10.1108/EUM0000000006512 (Permanent URL)
Publisher:	MCB UP Ltd
Abstract:	The Internet and World Wide Web (Web) provide instant access to vast quantities of information. Unfortunately, many people with visual, hearing, mobility, or learning disabilities are unable to take advantage of the opportunities afforded by the Web. This is because badly designed and/or inaccessible Web sites prevent them from fully experiencing the graphical and aural benefits of the medium. This paper introduces concepts of accessible Web design and describes how Web designers can build sites accessible to everyone with little added effort. It also provides a brief legal and economic rationale as to why it is important to do so. Principles of universal design and the guidelines developed by the World Wide Web Consortium’s Web Accessibility Initiative are described. An appendix of selected resources is also included.