Disability in the Library Setting

Anna Ercoli Schnitzer. AMLSDisability Issues & Outreach Librarian

Taubman Health Sciences LibraryUniversity of Michigan, Ann Arbor

schnitzr@umich.edu

U.S. Disability Statistics

• 51.2 million with some level of disability--18%

• 32.5 million with severe disability--12%

• 11% of children ages 6 to 14 (4 million children)

• 72% of people 80 and older

• 20% of females with disability; 17% of males

• Under age 5, more boys than girls—11% vs 6%

More Disability Statistics

• 1 of 5 or 1 of 10 individuals, depending on definition of disability

• 11% of students in higher education

• Both visible and invisible disabilities

• Both self-identified and not declared

• ADA covers physical, emotional, cognitive, developmental differences

ADA Definition of Disability

The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) has a three part definition of disability:

• 1) Individual has a physical or mental impairment that limits one or more major life activities

or

• 2) Individual has a record of such impairment

or

• 3) Individual is regarded as having such an impairment

Diversity of Disabilities

Getting Into & Around the Library

• Accessible parking nearby

• ADA-approved low energy doors

• Adequate space between desks and shelves for wheelchairs

• Appropriate heights for diverse patrons to use equipment

• Restroom equipped for special needs

• Accessibility Specifications: http://www.access-board.gov/adaag/checklist/Libraries.html

Accessible Parking

Easy Access

Disability Etiquette

Always ask before offering assistance

ADA Says Dogs Only

Service Dogs

Laws about Service Dogs

• Service Dogs are permitted in all areas where the general public is allowed (stores, libraries, restaurants, etc.)

• You are permitted to ask whether a dog has been trained for a specific disability but not what that disability is.

• No registration card or ID needs to be shown.

Equipment for Visually Impaired & Deaf Patrons

Research Guide(s) on Disability Topics

Women’s Wheelchair Basketball

Army-Navy Wheelchair Game at University of Michigan