Serving Print Disabled Library Patrons

Book excerpt: To a large extent, library schools have provided little training for librarians who serve visually or physically impaired patrons. Left to their own devices, librarians have developed a myriad of programs, often through a combination of professional savvy and creative instinct. While librarians have made an admirable effort to develop programs for print disabled patrons, many are unaware of or unable to access information on programs and services in place elsewhere. This work, written by experts in the field, provides a detailed course in serving the print impaired patron. The areas covered include education and training, accessing the library, services to students, the impact of technology, production practices, and awareness issues for librarians.