Use headings and subheadings
Use Alt Text for all (nondecorative) images (including book covers)
Ensure that all media (audio or video) contains text alternatives (transcript or captions)
Do not use color by itself to distinguish or emphasize
Do not use auto-play for gallery boxes
Describe where a hyperlink will take the user (do not use "Click here")
Define all jargon/acronyms if used
Screen readers can not read information that requires you to hover over something to display it
Ex: "Hover over item title" Or "Hover over 'i' icon" when adding descriptions. These are usually used to add more information to content such as books, links, and databases. The best practice is to include a short description under the item instead of using a "hover over" feature
Screen readers can not read tables. Avoid adding these in rich text boxes unless you plan on adding a screen-reader-friendly version as well
Learn more about how to ensure accessibility within LibGuides in VSU's LibGuide Training guide.
to11ly is from Khan Academy and is a free tool to check accessibility of sites. It will check and review headings, contrast issues, linked text, labels, alt text, and other common accessibly barriers.
You can check websites using WAVE by copying a web address into a search bar. The site analyzes the page and reports back with any errors or alerts regarding accessibility issues. It also breaks down what the information means, why it matters, and what standards or guidelines may relate to the issue.
This site provides an explanation of when and how to use alt text.
This website helps your writing be easier to read by providing suggestions and edits. It also lets you know the readability of your writing.
Stitz, T., & Blundell, S. (2018). Evaluating the accessibility of online library guides at an academic library. Journal of Accessibility and Design for All 8(1), 33-79. https://doi.org/10.17411/jacces.v8i1.145
Hopper, T. L. (2021). Accessibility and LibGuides in academic libraries. The Southeastern Librarian, 68(4), 12-28.
