Accessible Books Bank
As the publishing world produces more and more born accessible books, consumers need a way to find them. Part of that solution involves accessibility metadata, and part of it involves vendors, libraries and publisher websites exposing that data so that consumers can make informed choices.
The Bibliovideo team from the Canadian Children’s Books Centre has a unique solution to the question of discoverability. They have assembled a collection of books for young readers by Canadian creators that are made to accessible books standards all in one place called the Accessible Books Bank.
Why do we need this?
Around 20% of the Canadian population has a print disability of some kind. This could be:
A learning disability: An impairment relating to comprehension
A physical disability: The inability to hold or manipulate a book
A visual disability: Severe or total impairment of sight or the inability to focus or move one’s eyes
The need for accessible books for these readers is urgent. Accessible books also benefit readers who do not have print disabilities, and who may prefer or learn better from alternate formats such as audiobooks.
Accessible books allow young readers to have equal access to information, shared experiences with peers, the opportunity to explore interests of their choosing, and to become more fully engaged learners.
“Lack of accessibility features has made reading out of reach for many. Accessible book collections not only serve this compelling need, but also offer differentiated choices for all students. Necessary for some, good for everyone.” — Anita Brooks Kirkland, CEO, Canadian School Libraries
What is the Accessible Books Bank?
The Accessible Books Bank is a discovery tool or online catalogue designed to help you find Canadian books in accessible formats. It is the only service in Canada that allows readers, educators, librarians, families, and the general public to find Canadian books for kids and teens in accessible formats in one place.
The Book Bank allows you to:
Browse books that are available as ebooks, audiobooks, large print, braille, and other formats
Use search and filter options to find books by title, theme, grade level, format, and more
Read book descriptions and reviews, watch supplementary video content, and find out more about the authors and illustrators
Purchase books through links to retailers and wholesalers
Accessibility Metadata Is the Coolest
Because the accessibility metadata is exposed on the product pages, users can read about the features of deficits of a particular piece of content. Using that information to make sure that it meets their needs, they can buy or borrow the book with confidence.
The product page for Dragging Mason County from Annick Press has the following data listed on its page.
Want to Learn More?
The Bibliovideo team has created a video explaining the need and production of accessible books and demonstrating the Accessible Books Bank. Check it out!
