The American Library Association recognizes that people with disabilities are a large and neglected minority in the community and are severely underrepresented in the library profession.
Disabilities cause many personal challenges.
In addition, many people with disabilities face economic inequity, illiteracy, cultural isolation, and discrimination in education, employment and the broad range of societal activities. Libraries play a catalytic role in the lives of people with disabilities by facilitating their full participation in society. Libraries should use strategies based upon the principles of universal design to ensure that library policy, resources and services meet the needs of all people. ALA, through its divisions, offices and units and through collaborations with outside associations and agencies is dedicated to eradicating inequities and improving attitudes toward and services and opportunities for people with disabilities. The ADA is the Civil Rights law affecting more Americans than any other.