Course:LIBR559A/Leong, I.C.B2010

Citation

Leong, I. C. B. & Higgins, S. E. (2010). Public library services for wheelchair-bound young people in Singapore. Public Library Quarterly, 29(3), 210-229 .  doi: 10.1080/01616846.2010.502033

Annotation

The purpose of this study is through exploratory research of wheelchair bound youth find out what are their information needs, perceptions of libraries and library services and what are the barriers and problems they face in using library facilities and services.

Most youth stated that the biggest problems they faced using libraries were mainly related to architectural and physical access to library facilities and services. Since libraries play an important role in the education of youth; users have a more positive impression of libraries and their services than non-users. The needs of young wheelchair users were no different than that of their peers who are non-wheelchair users. Disabilities and access to libraries cannot be ignored because it can limit selection of services and material and have negative implications and perceptions of public libraries and their use. Having a physical disability did not deter wheelchair users from their information needs but it was a critical factor in how information was obtained. The researchers believed that since many of them stated reading as their hobby that reading could be a significant way that wheelchair users learn, discover and experience the world around them. The lack of awareness about the services and programs offered at the library is a predictor of whether youth use the library or not. Once the youth were aware about the programs and services many of them had high attendance and were popular. However, poor promotion strategies prevented many youth from gaining the awareness. The researchers suggested that the promotion should also be target the parents and guardians since many are the ones who are driving the youth to and from the library.

A major problem with using the library and facilities was poor transportation. Many youth who may have wanted to attend the library were not able to due to transportation. For the library, the problems frequently mentioned in the study were: the building, furniture, computer equipment, and other physical obstructions. Many felt a stigma of how other patrons viewed wheelchair users at the library. Due to the stigma, they felt and wanting independence many did not want to ask for a lot of help or burden anybody with their questions. Libraries have a responsibility for wheelchair users to not feel that stigma and on the contrary, make all users feel welcomed. The staff should also be aware of emotional sensitivities when assisting patrons. For many wheelchair youth, the Internet has been a way of dealing with architectural barriers. However, this raises the issue of the importance of information literacy.

Although the researchers share some valuable information. This study may not be truly representative of all young people in a wheelchair. A better understanding of wheelchair users needs would be beneficial for public library services. This study was held in Singapore therefore there are probably different guidelines to access. However, it is important to note that each country will have different policies and guidelines when it comes to access for people with any disability. This does not mean that it is not valid for Canada since similar problems regarding access and design can be seen in Canada too. Having a clearer idea of wheelchair user needs at the library can improve their independence at the library. The best way to implement this and gather this information is by asking wheelchair users themselves and involving oneself in that community.

Page Author: Irene Moreno