The Americans with Disabilities Act

“Soul of a People: Voices from the Writers’ Project” Online Site Support Notebook

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (PL 101-336), which went into effect in July 1992, guarantees that people with disabilities shall have equal access to employment, public services and accommodations, transportation and telecommunications services.

As public service providers, libraries must make reasonable efforts to give people with disabilities the same access to information, programs and resources enjoyed by those who do not have disabilities.

Each library in the “Soul of a People” project will have varying capabilities for providing equal access to people with disabilities. We urge you to do as much as you reasonably can to make programs accessible to this population.

Local or regional agencies which are responsible for services for people with disabilities may be helpful. We offer the following suggestions to enhance the accessibility of “Soul of a People.”

• Allow space for wheelchairs in program spaces.
• Prepare a large-print version of publicity materials and program handouts.
• Provide for signing at programs.
• Provide audio versions of scripts if necessary.