Committee charge

The Disability Accommodation Committee is charged with the following responsibilities as they relate to the needs of library users:

1. Updating print and on-line information for the public on the library's services for people with disabilities.
2. Updating staff information on the library's accommodations for people with disabilities, including Library Commons and ADA plan.
3. Monitoring current laws and trends in services for people with disabilities.
4. Facilitating staff training about providing services to people with disabilities.
5. Recommending purchase of assistive devices and technologies for people with disabilities.
6. Recommending new services or service changes based on trends and laws related to accommodating people with disabilities.

Membership

Membership includes staff members who have some interest, experience or expertise in the needs of library users with disabilities, including hearing and central auditory processing disorders, visual disabilities, autism, motor impairments and learning disabilities. Permanent members include the web accessibility expert from the library web team.  The committee also seeks to have representation from  the Technology Action Team, Youth Services, Neighborhood libraries or Central Library management (depending on which is covered by the TAT rep.), front line public services staff (access and/or information services) and IT.  Members serve 4-year staggered terms to ensure continuity and time to develop expertise.

The Americans with Disabilities Act extends civil rights protection to people with disabilities. Under the ADA, these rights include equal access to employment, public services and public accommodations.