Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln

 

Abstract

The paper reviewed literature to determine the information and library needs of the visually impaired and the kind of materials they utilize to satisfy their information needs. The paper also reviewed literature to determine the provision of special services by libraries for the visually impaired and the adequacy of library and information services provided. The review found that reading interests of persons with visual disabilities in Nigeria are varied just like those of sighted individuals. They receive information in alternative formats such as Braille, talking book/audio recording and large print. However, library materials are usually not available in quantities desirable for the visually impaired and there is an acute shortage of reading materials in alternative formats in Nigerian schools. Also, only a few institutions provide information services to the visually impaired in Nigeria. It was also found that the visually impaired prefer electronic materials and that adaptive technology facilitates their interaction with information.

It is therefore recommended that there should be establishment of more information institutions that provide visually impaired persons with information resources. Library authorities should provide clear policy statements and plans for the provision of services to the visually impaired, train staff in basic visual awareness, collaborate with other agencies for appropriate service delivery to visually impaired, acquire adaptive technology and educate visually impaired persons on information literacy skills.

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