The Purchase College Library aims to create an equitable environment in which all our users thrive.
We recognize that creating and maintaining that space means we must remain vigilant—engaged in constant education, advocacy, and flexibility. To that end, we strive to:
think strategically about our use of resources to enhance accessibility wherever possible
advise faculty on accessible practices, especially regarding the use of our content
partner with the Office of Disability Resources for ongoing course needs
train staff and faculty on the use of our collections with an eye toward accessibility and potential barriers
continue to explore accessibility best practices, including Scanning Best Practices as well as procurement of materials
This set of guidelines serves to support Campus Libraries in promoting best practices to achieve EIT Accessibility as it pertains to critical library functions, including but not limited to, services, collections, and spaces. Refer to other standards listed in this SUNY EIT document where relevant and essential to delivering accessible library services and supports.
Ensure our website is compliant and friendly
Make accessible materials more discoverable
Guide faculty in acquiring more accessible course content available to all through our collections
Support open educational resources (which tend to have fewer barriers)
Hold database vendors to promises in their Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) conformance reviews
Report issues to vendors and SUNY Shared Library Services (SLS) when we find them
Advocate for vendors to have more reliable roadmaps and processes for making materials accessible.
Review VPATS on a regular basis, especially before we re-engage a vendor
Partner with the Westchester Library System to offer access to audiobooks and other alternative formats
Partner with the New York Public Library’s Andrew Heiskell Talking Books Library to assist users with print disabilities more efficiently
Any reference librarian can support you in seeking materials in a more accessible format. Overall questions for Electronic & Information Technology Accessibility can be sent to Rebecca Oling, Director of Digital Accessibility.
