FAQs
Q: What specific laws require library websites to be accessible?
A: Public libraries, as state and local government entities, are required to provide equal access under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. These laws apply to both physical and digital services.
Q: What is the technical accessibility standard?
A: The recognized standard for digital accessibility is the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA. This standard has been adopted by the Department of Justice for public entities under ADA Title II.
Q: How does PLWAA decide which libraries to test?
A: PLWAA prioritizes reviews based on publicly observable indicators that suggest potential noncompliance, including:
- Misleading or inaccurate accessibility claims
- Reliance on overlays or “accessibility widgets” as a substitute for proper remediation
- Repeated accessibility failures linked to the same vendor
- Patterns identified within library consortia
- Reports from patrons, staff, or community members
Our approach is evidence based and focused on identifying high-risk, system-wide issues.
Q: What is PLWAA’s position on accessibility widgets and overlays?
A: Overlays and widgets do not fix underlying accessibility issues and often create new barriers for screen reader and keyboard-only users. They do not meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA requirements and are not considered a valid compliance solution.
Q: How can a library know if its website is truly accessible?
A: Automated tools cannot confirm full compliance. True accessibility can only be verified through manual functional testing by qualified accessibility specialists and individuals who use assistive technologies such as screen readers and keyboard-only navigation.
Libraries should request documentation of WCAG 2.1 Level AA testing and confirmation that assistive technology users were involved in the evaluation process.
Q: Are libraries notified before a complaint is filed?
A: In most cases, PLWAA provides written notice of confirmed accessibility concerns and an opportunity for the institution to respond. In rare cases involving clearly misleading public claims or repeated disregard for accessibility requirements, a formal complaint may be submitted without prior engagement.
Q: What does a notice from PLWAA include?
A: A notice confirms that verified barriers were identified and references the institution’s legal obligations. It does not include technical instructions for remediation.
Q: What can result from a federal accessibility complaint?
A: A complaint may trigger a federal investigation that can lead to a Resolution Agreement requiring corrective action and ongoing compliance monitoring. This process is designed to ensure that digital accessibility is treated as a civil right.
Q: How can libraries maintain accessibility over time?
A: Accessibility requires ongoing attention. Effective practices include:
- Training staff in accessible content practices
- Testing after major updates or redesigns
- Verifying new vendors and tools for compliance
- Maintaining a current and accurate accessibility statement
When accessibility becomes part of daily operations, compliance is more sustainable and effective.