In recognition of the 14th annual Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) and the Canadian Association of Research Libraries (CARL) are encouraging libraries and related stakeholders to reflect on and engage with digital accessibility and inclusion initiatives.
The organizations are highlighting a range of resources and policy developments aimed at advancing accessibility in scholarly communications. One key focus is the upcoming implementation of the European Accessibility Act (EAA), which takes effect on June 28, 2025. The legislation mandates that e-books and e-readers be accessible, impacting both EU-based publishers and those distributing content within the European market. Given the global reach of most publishing operations, the EAA is expected to have international implications. Informational materials outlining the EAA's relevance to libraries and publishers are available, including a video discussion hosted by the Charleston Hub and a guest post on The Scholarly Kitchen.
Another major initiative centers on the Marrakesh Treaty, an international agreement overseen by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) that facilitates access to published works for individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or otherwise print disabled. The treaty mandates participating nations—including Canada and the United States—to enable the reproduction and distribution of accessible format works by introducing specific copyright limitations and exceptions.
ARL and CARL have jointly examined the treaty’s implementation within North American research libraries. As part of this collaboration, they have identified aligned efforts such as the Educational Materials Made Accessible (EMMA) repository, which supports the sharing of accessible educational content across institutions in Canada, the U.S., and other countries. This initiative has also contributed to deeper analysis of national copyright frameworks and strengthened ongoing advocacy efforts.
To support accessibility practices, a list of repositories hosting accessible scholarly materials is available for library professionals. Additional resources can be found through ARL and CARL websites, including updates on accessibility-related policies and projects in both countries.
In a workshop at the 2024 Ontario Library Association (OLA) Super Conference, ARL and CARL also explored how Marrakesh Treaty implementation aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, the work contributes to SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). The Library Map of the World, which showcases global contributions by libraries toward the SDGs, includes narratives from both the U.S. and Canada and invites further contributions.
Two institutional case studies were also shared as models of accessibility leadership. At the University of Florida, the George A. Smathers Libraries enhanced their digital publishing workflows under the LibraryPress@UF imprint by recommitting to accessibility testing after identifying compliance issues during production. At York University Libraries, a personalized accessibility support program matches students with print disabilities to transcription assistants, offering long-term support across their academic studies. This approach ensures equitable access to resources, regardless of format availability.
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