Equity and inclusivity in library services for people with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The study sought to investigate the level of preparedness of Kaimosi Friends University (KAFU) library in service provision to People With Disabilities (PWDs) during the COVID-19 pandemic with a view to providing strategies aimed at ensuring equity and inclusivity in service provision. The specific objectives of the study were: to investigate the level of preparedness of the library in providing services to PWDs; to explore the types of services available for PWDs; to establish the opportunities and challenges PWDs encounter in accessing services; provide strategies to mitigate against these challenges and enhance equity and inclusivity in service provision. The study was informed by the social model of disability. The research adopted qualitative research design. The study population included users with physical challenges, visual and hearing impairment and service providers. Purposive sampling technique was employed targeting information rich sources. Data was obtained through face-to-face interviews complemented by the observation method. Data was analyzed thematically and aligned to the objectives of the study. The findings of the study indicated that the library was inadequately prepared to provide services for the PWDs. It lacked the requisite physical facilities, equipment, amenities, alternative formats of resources and specialized staff to cater for needs of PWDs. The study recommended advocacy for a sound legal and policy framework aimed at ensuring requisite infrastructure is in place