Accessibility and Library Digital Collections
The following information is in alignment with University Policy, which states:
The university will ensure that its digital content, systems, and technology services are accessible and usable for individuals with disabilities. The university will work toward conformance with widely recognized accessibility standards and legal requirements. When accessibility barriers are identified, reasonable efforts will be made to remediate them in a timely manner. Accommodations remain available for individuals who encounter accessibility barriers while remediation is in progress.
As Rod Library works toward ensuring that our collections are accessible and in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Title II Regulations, we will prioritize remediation of digital content created after April 26, 2027.
Library users may request accommodations or accessible versions of any library digital materials.
What is accessibility remediation?
Accessibility remediation is the process of identifying and addressing barriers in digital content, ensuring it is compatible with assistive technologies and inclusive for all users.
About Our Collections
Archived Web Content
Rod Library maintains a large collection of digital and digitized archival content. All materials created before April 26, 2027, fall under the Archived Web Content exception outlined in ADA Title II regulations. Accessible versions of content that qualify for the Archived Web Content exception will be made available upon request.
Born-digital Content
If born-digital content created after April 26, 2027, is not accessible due to technical or legal limitations, a conforming alternate version will be made available upon request as practicable.
Library Databases
To provide access to a wide array of digitally available content, the library subscribes to many databases - digital platforms that host access to journal articles, ebooks, and other content. Database vendors provide VPATs (Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates) and ACRs (Accessibility Conformance Reports), which outline their compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) required by Title II of the ADA.
UNI Open Textbooks (via Manifold)
Open textbooks created by UNI faculty and staff will be provided via the Manifold platform and an accessible PDF. Alternative formats are provided to allow for offline use and editing. Authors are responsible for ensuring the accessibility of resources before sharing publicly. Accessibility statements are included in all UNI open textbooks.
Third-party Content
Rod Library maintains a large collection of content created by individuals outside of UNI. All materials posted to the Rod Library website not due to contractual, licensing, or other arrangements with the Library fall under the third-party content exception outlined in ADA Title II regulations. Accessible versions of content that qualify for the third-party content exception will be made available by Rod Library as practicable.