Section #18: Libraries of Educational and Training Institutions

What the standard says

(1) Subject to subsection (2) and where available, the libraries of educational or training institutions that are obligated organizations shall provide, procure or acquire by other means an accessible or conversion ready format of print, digital or multimedia resources or materials for a person with a disability, upon request. O. Reg. 191/11, s. 18 (1).

(2) Special collections, archival materials, rare books and donations are exempt from the requirements of subsection (1). O. Reg. 191/11, s. 18 (2).

Suggested approach

Resources to help develop procurement language when university libraries are acquiring accessible or conversion-ready formats of print, digital or multimedia resources or materials have been identified below. Also provided are sample procurement policies and practices.

Suggested best practices

Repositories of electronic educational materials:

• Ontario Council of University Libraries: Scholars Portal 
• Ontario Government: Alternative Education Resources Ontario (AERO)

Procurement policies:

• George Brown College: Captioned Media and E-Text Policy
• Innisfil Public Library Board: Corporate Purchasing
• American Library Association: Think Accessible Before You Buy

Accessibility plans:

• York University: Library Accessibility Services

Evaluating accessibility resources:

• American Library Association: Electronic Database and Computer Software Evaluation
• American Library Association: Computer Software Accessibility Checklist
• Information Technology Industry Council: Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT)

Creating accessible documents:

• CNIB: Clear Print Guidelines
• Adobe: Accessibility Guidelines
• Guides to creating accessible digital documents and websites can be found in the Reference Library.

Compliance schedule for Section #18, as stated in the IASR

• In respect of print-based resources or materials, January 1, 2015.
• In respect of digital or multimedia resources or materials, January 1, 2020.

How does the IASR relate to the Ontario Human Rights Code?

In Section 1 (2), the IASR states that, “the requirements in the standards set out in this Regulation are not a replacement or a substitution for the requirements established under the Human Rights Code nor do the standards limit any obligations owed to persons with disabilities under any other legislation.”