Web Accessibility: VPAT Project for RAILS Public Libraries
The Web Accessibility: Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) web page is now available for RAILS public libraries to access. The information on this web page will help libraries understand web accessibility and how to vet resources. Digital technology accessibility is essential when considering library purchases to achieve equitable and inclusive service and access to resources.
RAILS libraries can view VPATs published on the web page. The VPAT links can be sorted and viewed by vendor, resource name, and library. In addition, libraries can create and share their customized list with staff and patrons by embedding or linking it to their library website or intranet. The ability to view RAILS library holdings of specific e-resources can help inform selection decisions, resource discovery, and foster collaboration on marketing and training.
Members must be logged into the RAILS website to add their library's vendor/e-resource information and view library holdings by resource. We encourage all RAILS public libraries to add their library's vendor/e-resource information to make this tool as comprehensive and useful as possible.
This resource was developed to help our members further their equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts. Robin Hofstetter, SWAN E-Resources Consultant, reached out to RAILS for a systemwide solution after identifying the need for a repository for VPATs for electronic resources purchased and used by public libraries.
Team members who developed the Vendor Privacy Policy Project include Robin Hofstetter (SWAN), Jenny Bean (Oak Lawn Public Library), Lizzy Boden (Hinsdale Public Library) Michael Campagna (Barrington Public Library District), Michelle Coduto (Oak Brook Public Library), Lizzy Klinnert (Elk Grove Village Public Library), and RAILS staff members Leila Heath and Brian Smith. The group will continue to manage and monitor the project for the first year. Based on member feedback, we may expand the project to include school, academic and specialized libraries in 2022.
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