1. Disability in the Library Setting
Anna Ercoli Schnitzer. AMLS
Disability Issues & Outreach Librarian
Taubman Health Sciences Library
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

2. U.S. Disability Statistics
51.2 million with some level of disability--18%
32.5 million with severe disability--12%
11% of children ages 6 to 14 (4 million children)
72% of people 80 and older
20% of females with disability; 17% of males
Under age 5, more boys than girls—11% vs 6%

3. More Disability Statistics
1 of 5 or 1 of 10 individuals, depending on definition of disability
11% of students in higher education
Both visible and invisible disabilities
Both self-identified and not declared
ADA covers physical, emotional, cognitive, developmental differences

4. ADA Definition of Disability
The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) has a three part definition of disability:
1) Individual has a physical or mental impairment that limits one or more major life activities or
2) Individual has a record of such impairment
3) Individual is regarded as having such an impairment

5. Diversity of Disabilities

6. Getting Into & Around the Library
Accessible parking nearby
ADA-approved low energy doors
Adequate space between desks and shelves for wheelchairs
Appropriate heights for diverse patrons to use equipment
Restroom equipped for special needs
Accessibility Specifications: board.gov/adaag/checklist/Libraries.html

7. Accessible Parking

8. Easy Access

9. Disability Etiquette

10. Always ask before offering assistance

11. ADA Says Dogs Only

12. Service Dogs

13. Laws about Service Dogs
Service Dogs are permitted in all areas where the general public is allowed (stores, libraries, restaurants, etc.)
You are permitted to ask whether a dog has been trained for a specific disability but not what that disability is.
No registration card or ID needs to be shown.

14. Equipment for Visually Impaired & Deaf Patrons

15. Research Guide(s) on Disability Topics

16. Women’s Wheelchair Basketball

17. Army-Navy Wheelchair Game at University of Michigan