Who We Are

PLWAA is a coalition dedicated to advancing and upholding digital accessibility compliance within the public library sector.

Our team includes certified accessibility professionals who conduct manual WCAG 2.1 Level AA testing, individuals who rely on assistive technology, and advisors with expertise in usability and federal civil rights law.

We focus exclusively on publicly funded libraries and base all actions on verifiable evidence, neutrality, and documented noncompliance under Title II of the ADA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Why PLWAA Was Created

PLWAA was formed in response to widespread and persistent digital inaccessibility in public libraries, despite clear federal requirements.

Root Causes of Digital Inaccessibility

• Persistent disregard for accessibility as a civil rights obligation
• Misleading vendor claims about “accessible” products
• Lack of independent verification in procurement
• Insufficient staff training and oversight

These failures have resulted in public funds supporting systems that deny patrons with disabilities equal and independent access to information and services.

Mission & Values

Mission

To uphold the civil right to digital access by driving ADA Title II compliance across public library systems through verified evidence and, when necessary, formal complaint and escalation processes.

Core Values

• Accountability: Digital access is a civil right under federal law
• Equity: All patrons deserve equal, independent access
• Integrity: Evaluations are neutral, transparent, and evidence-based
• Due Process: Formal complaints follow documented non-compliance and failed voluntary resolution