PDA Event: Starting from Scratch: Accessibility Planning at the University of Memphis Libraries

For many libraries, addressing accessibility needs feels critical to the library’s mission and values, while at the same time falling outside the scope or expertise of library staff. The University of Memphis Libraries is one such place where no individual job description or departmental charge includes an obligation to accessibility. In 2021, a group of faculty and staff sought to fill this gap by forming the Libraries Accessibility Committee, where members could address needs and share resources to more equitably serve patrons. Five years later, the committee is now implementing the second iteration of its Libraries Accessibility Plan, providing structure and guidance for its ongoing and future work. 

Presenters:

Marie Peeples (she/her) is the Electronic Resources Librarian at the University of Memphis Libraries in Memphis, TN. She has served on the Libraries Accessibility Committee since 2022 and chaired the committee since 2023.

Brigitte Billeaudeaux (she/her) is the Department Head of Special Collections at the University of Memphis Libraries in Memphis, TN. She served on the Libraries Accessibility Committee from 2021 until 2025. 

Anna Kirby (she/her) is a Library Assistant II in Special Collections at the University of Memphis Libraries in Memphis, TN. She has served on the Libraries Accessibility Committee since 2023.

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