Are the deaf a disabled group, or a linguistic minority? Issues for librarians in Victoria’s public libraries

Abstract

Presents a brief overview of the sociological forces shaping the discourse of disability; examines the part that public libraries have played, or failed to play, in addressing issues of exclusion as they relate to people with disabilities. Focuses on Australia’s deaf community and its particular informational needs. The low impact of the Disability Discrimination Act on public library services in Victoria is examined and comparisons made with some American public library initiatives. The author suggests improvements to services to individuals with disabilities including the deaf, and the importance of public libraries formulating Action Plans which address the issue of exclusion, is discussed.