Accessibility and inclusion are foundational to how modern libraries serve their communities. As digital services, online resources, and technology-enabled workflows continue to expand, libraries are increasingly challenged to ensure that disabled and impaired patrons can fully access and benefit from all offerings.
On January 27 at 11:00 AM ET, Library Journal and Clarivate will host a webinar that brings together library practitioners from North America and Europe to share real-world experiences and practical lessons around accessibility. Rather than focusing on theory or compliance alone, this session centers on what accessibility looks like in day-to-day library work- including what has worked, what has been challenging, and what libraries wish they had known earlier.
Learn more about the session and reserve your spot below:
Accessibility as an ongoing journey
One of the key themes of the discussion is that accessibility is not a one-time initiative. Even libraries with more mature programs continue to adapt as technologies change, patron needs evolve, and expectations around digital accessibility grow. The panel reflects this reality by bringing together libraries at different stages of their accessibility efforts, operating in different regional and regulatory contexts.
Through honest conversation and lived experience, speakers will explore how accessibility priorities have evolved over time- from early actions and incremental improvements to longer-term strategies that support more inclusive services.
Learning from practice, not perfection
The webinar will highlight how libraries are advancing accessibility in practice, from organizational strategy and policy considerations to real-world implementation and patron impact. Panelists will discuss how they’ve learned directly from patrons, how staff have been engaged in accessibility efforts, and how accessibility considerations factor into conversations with vendors and technology partners.
The goal is to help attendees understand that progress does not require perfection. Small, intentional steps- informed by real experiences- can make a meaningful difference for patrons.
Featured speakers
This webinar features perspectives from public library systems in the United States and Europe:
Nicole Turzillo, Administrator for Technical Services, Suffolk County Cooperative Library System (Downstate New York
Karin Larsson, Accessibility Coordinator, Malmö City Libraries (Sweden)
Tommy Olsson, Useit Consulting AB, Sweden
Moderator
Ruth Starr, Senior Accessibility Program Manager, Clarivate
Ruth leads Clarivate’s accessibility programs, bringing deep expertise in inclusive design and digital accessibility strategy. She regularly presents on accessibility topics with library and information communities and helps guide product and organizational practices that improve access for users of all abilities.
Who Should Attend
This discussion is designed for library leaders, technologists, accessibility champions, and staff responsible for digital services, inclusion initiatives, or vendor evaluation.
Whether your library is just beginning to formalize accessibility efforts or looking to strengthen existing practices, attendees will leave with clearer context, shared language, and actionable insights they can apply within their own institutions.
Webinar Details
Date & Time: January 27, 11:00 AM ET
Format: Moderated panel discussion with live audience Q&A
Hosted by: Library Journal & Clarivate
And join the conversation to learn from libraries navigating accessibility in real-world environments.