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LibGuides Accessibility

Internal UC Irvine Libraries resource guide to promote best practices in guide accessibility.

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Overview

Assistive technology

Assistive technology (AT) includes equipment or software designed to address barriers encountered by a person with a disability. It can range from low tech solutions like magnifying glasses to more high tech solutions like software. Even a keyboard can be considered an assistive technology for individuals who cannot use a mouse.

UC Irvine resources

Keyboard compatibility

All functionality must be usable with the keyboard. That is, users can access and move between links, buttons, forms, and other controls using the Tab key and other keystrokes. Websites should not require a mouse; for example, pop-up calendars should also let users type in a date.

Additional resources

Screen reader compatibility

Many computers and mobile devices today have built in text-to-speech software. Some people with disabilities, including people with limited vision or cognitive and learning disabilities, use specialized software called screen readers. Screen readers provide important functionality such as navigating through headings, speaking image alternatives, and identifying internal and external links. They can also highlight the text as it is being read aloud for people to see and hear the content at the same time. Content must be coded properly so that all of the functionality of the text-to-speech software works with the content.

Additional resources