EMPOWERING ALL: THE VITAL ROLE OF MEDICAL LIBRARIANS IN ENSURING HOSPITAL LIBRARY ACCESSIBILITY FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Abstract

Over the past two decades, the integration of people with disabilities into mainstream society has witnessed a profound shift. Prior to this period, individuals with disabilities were often excluded from mainstream education, employment, and community activities based on their specific disabilities. This exclusion has given way to a process of integration, which aims to normalize the lives of people with disabilities. Integration ensures that they are not segregated or separated from the broader society; instead, they live as integral members of their communities, participating in all aspects of society on an equal footing. This principle extends to various facets of life, such as education, employment, and, notably, access to local libraries, where individuals with disabilities should enjoy the same privileges as their non-disabled counterparts.

The 1981 declaration by the United Nations of the International Year of Disabled Persons (IYDP) with the theme "Full-participation and Equality" marked a pivotal moment in raising awareness about the rights and needs of disabled individuals. Although initially perceived as primarily addressing those with mobility issues, the IYDP significantly increased awareness about the diverse needs and rights of all disabled people. The general public began to recognize that disabled individuals have equal rights to access services, participate in programs, and engage in activities just like anyone else. Disabled individuals themselves have become more vocal in asserting their rights and protesting against any infringements.

Within the library community, the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) responded to a request from UNESCO by developing the Public Library Manifesto, which was subsequently approved in 1994. This manifesto serves as a persuasive tool, advocating the essential values upheld by public libraries and their vital contributions to the broader community and democratic principles. It underscores the significance of public libraries as local gateways to knowledge, fostering conditions for lifelong learning, independent decision-making, and the cultural development of individuals and social groups.