Advancing inclusion & enhancing library accessibility for students with special needs

The Mohammed VI Library (M6L) at Al Akhawayn University (AUI) is undertaking an inclusion initiative to assess and enhance accessibility to library services and resources for students with special needs. This research based project uses a comparative approach, examining accessibility practices in academic libraries across universities with similar context to AUI ( Arab countries and American universities in the Arab world). In collaboration with the university’s Inclusion Office, we are gathering data on the needs of our diverse community and conducting surveys with students with special needs to identify barriers to Library services and products. The study aims to come up with recommendations that will inform policy changes and service improvements, ensuring a more inclusive learning environment. This presentation will share our methodology, key findings, and proposed interventions, fostering a discussion on best practices for accessibility in academic libraries.