Library Digital Accessibility & Privacy Guide

Libraries are foundational institutions for equal access to information. This guide covers accessibility requirements for library websites, digital catalogs, e-book platforms, and online databases, as well as patron privacy protections that are central to library values.

Library Accessibility Obligations

Libraries have a long tradition of serving patrons with disabilities. Digital services must extend this commitment:

Public Libraries

• Subject to ADA Title II as state and local government entities
• Section 508 compliance if receiving federal funding
• New ADA Title II rule requires WCAG 2.1 AA compliance by 2026-2028
• Must provide equally effective communication

Academic Libraries

• Public universities: ADA Title II applies
• Private universities: ADA Title III applies
• Section 504 and 508 for institutions receiving federal funding
• E-reserve systems must be accessible to students with disabilities

Online Catalog Accessibility

The library catalog is the gateway to collections. Accessibility requirements:

Feature	Accessibility Requirements
Search Interface	Properly labeled search fields; keyboard-accessible filters; screen reader compatible autocomplete
Search Results	Accessible result lists; clear navigation between results; meaningful link text
Item Records	Structured content with proper headings; accessible cover images with alt text
Account Functions	Accessible holds, renewals, and reading history; form field labels
Advanced Search	Accessible faceted search; keyboard-operable filter controls

E-Book and Digital Content

Digital lending platforms present unique accessibility challenges:

E-Book Platform Requirements

• Screen reader compatible e-book readers
• Text-to-speech functionality for e-books
• Adjustable font sizes and display settings
• Accessible navigation within e-books
• Keyboard-accessible checkout and download
• Compatible with assistive technology on multiple devices

Audiobook Accessibility

• Accessible playback controls
• Variable playback speed
• Bookmarking and navigation features
• Sleep timer with accessible controls
• Downloadable for offline use

Digital Collection Vendors

Libraries should verify accessibility of third-party platforms:

• Request VPATs (Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates) from vendors
• Include accessibility requirements in procurement contracts
• Test platforms with actual assistive technology
• Require vendor remediation timelines for accessibility issues

Research Databases

Academic and research databases must be accessible to all patrons:

Database Feature	Accessibility Considerations
Search Interface	Keyboard navigation; screen reader labels; clear focus indicators
Result Display	Accessible tables; proper heading structure; meaningful abstracts
Full-Text Articles	Accessible PDF or HTML versions; image descriptions
Citations	Export functions compatible with screen readers; accessible citation formats
Saved Searches	Accessible account management; alert preferences

Patron Privacy Protection

Library patron privacy is protected by professional ethics and state laws. All 50 states have library confidentiality statutes.

Protected Patron Information

• Circulation records: What materials patrons have borrowed
• Search queries: What patrons search for in catalogs and databases
• Computer use: Websites visited, files downloaded on library computers
• Program attendance: Participation in library events and classes
• Account information: Personal details, contact information

State Library Confidentiality Laws

Protection	Common Provisions
Borrowing Records	Cannot be disclosed without patron consent or court order
Law Enforcement	Subpoena or warrant typically required; some states require notification
Third Parties	Generally prohibited from accessing patron information
Minors	Varies by state; some allow parental access, others protect equally
Data Retention	Many states require minimizing retention of patron data

Digital Privacy Challenges

• Vendor data collection: Third-party e-book and database vendors may collect patron data
• Analytics tracking: Website and app analytics can reveal patron behavior
• Cloud services: Cloud-hosted systems may store patron data outside library control
• Social media integration: "Share" buttons can track patron interests
• Personalization features: Recommendation systems require data collection

Vendor Privacy Requirements

Libraries should include privacy protections in vendor contracts:

• Limit vendor collection to necessary operational data
• Prohibit sale or sharing of patron data
• Require data deletion when contract ends
• Mandate breach notification
• Allow patron opt-out of personalization
• Provide transparency about data practices

Implementation Checklist

Accessibility Compliance

• Conduct accessibility audit of library website and catalog
• Request VPATs from all digital content vendors
• Test e-book platforms with screen readers
• Ensure database interfaces are keyboard accessible
• Add alt text to book cover images
• Create accessible library card registration process
• Verify computer reservation system accessibility
• Train staff on assistive technology support

Privacy Compliance

• Review state library confidentiality law requirements
• Establish data retention policy aligned with ALA guidelines
• Audit vendor contracts for privacy protections
• Implement opt-out for reading history and recommendations
• Post clear privacy policy on website
• Train staff on patron confidentiality obligations
• Develop law enforcement request procedures

Common Violations to Avoid

• Inaccessible online catalog search and results
• E-book platforms incompatible with screen readers
• Database vendors not meeting WCAG standards
• Sharing patron data with third parties without consent
• Retaining circulation records longer than necessary
• Inadequate vendor privacy contract terms

Related Resources

• Education Sector Guide
• Government Sector Guide
• ADA Title II Overview
• Accessible PDF Requirements
• Privacy Compliance Guide
• Understanding VPATs