A user survey of the experiences of blind and visually impaired people using electronic information services, with regard to the practical implementation of these services in public libraries

Lewis, Andrew A user survey of the experiences of blind and visually impaired people using electronic information services, with regard to the practical implementation of these services in public libraries., 2004 MSc dissertation thesis, Robert Gordon University (United Kingdom). [Thesis]

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English abstract

The report outlines research with blind and partially sighted people using electronic information services in real-life situations, and specifically how their experiences might inform the planning of these services in UK public libraries. Based upon a full literature review, a survey was conducted of blind and partially sighted people who have some experience of using electronic information services, suitable for, but not restricted to use in, public libraries. The methodology outlines the creation of two electronic survey formats, designed to be accessible and usable for blind and visually impaired people, and the related issues of delivery for the study sample. The data collected is included, and a full analysis of the findings is presented. Correlation was found with other wider surveys in the specific fields of blind and visually impaired people, and electronic information services. The report concludes that the visually impaired and especially blind people surveyed feel that libraries are out of touch with their needs relating to electronic information services, that there is correlation between users’ personal preferences and the usability of services, and that diverse and varying services act as a barrier to use. Evidence was also found to support the idea that computer access technologies aimed at blind and visually impaired people may attract very little use in libraries, without significant investment in staff training. A case is made for greater investigation of remote access to electronic services that can be accessed by blind people with their own equipment. This is felt to have usability benefits such as users’ familiarity with their own systems, and the reduction of unnecessary travel. It was also concluded that there is a need for specific consultation with people who are blind, separate from those who are partially sighted, and early involvement of both groups in testing of new services.

Item type: Thesis (UNSPECIFIED)
Keywords: blind, visually impaired, electronic information access, web, usability, accessibility, partially sighted, public library, libraries online
Subjects: I. Information treatment for information services > IK. Design, development, implementation and maintenance
C. Users, literacy and reading. > CC. User categories: children, young people, social groups.
D. Libraries as physical collections. > DC. Public libraries.
Depositing user: Andrew Lewis
Date deposited: 04 Nov 2004
Last modified: 02 Oct 2014 11:59
URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10760/5584

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