Accessibility of communication and information for people with sensory disabilities in the libraries of Azogues

Abstract

In contemporary societies, accessibility constitutes a fundamental element to achieve the inclusion of people with disabilities; which should not only be addressed in a focused manner on a particular dimension, but on the contrary should be managed comprehensively, both in physical and virtual spaces. However, there are still institutions in which the basic conditions to guarantee accessibility for people with sensory disabilities have not been met, as is the case of the libraries of the city of Azogues. Therefore, this article was carried out with the objective of evaluating the accessibility of communication and information for people with sensory disabilities in the libraries of Azogues. A methodology was applied based on an ethnographic design, with a mixed approach and descriptive scope; The population was considered to be those in charge of the libraries located in Azogues, and non-probabilistic convenience sampling was also applied to select 30 people with sensory disabilities. As identified, the personnel of these entities do not have training in sign language, which limits communication with people with hearing disabilities, nor do they have materials available in Braille or audiobooks so that people with visual disabilities can access the information. information. It concludes on the gaps that have prevailed in terms of accessibility and inclusion, which makes it difficult to provide library services for people with disabilities, aspects that must be corrected.