COVID-19, accessibility, and libraries: A call to action

Abstract

As the COVID-19 pandemic manifested, institutions of higher education moved their teaching online, libraries closed, and there was a rapid shift in libraries to more fully support digital learning environments as much as possible.

During this pandemic, how are college and university libraries supporting their most vulnerable patrons? Times of crisis are exactly when we should be thinking about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Many academic institutions and libraries have recognized that students need wireless hotspots and laptops if they are in situations with limited access to technology, but have we thoroughly considered the needs of patrons with disabilities?