Establishing a Community-Driven Digital Library for the Visually Impaired

Abstract

Translate Article

This research represents the initial stages of our efforts to establish a digital library run by visually impaired individuals. We use the Action Research (AR) methodology, which involves researchers and community members collaborating to solve real-world problems. Our study focuses on documenting the process of creating a non-profit organization (NPO), building a supportive community, and gathering insights through interviews with key stakeholders. Specifically, the lead author established an NPO registered under Article 37, Paragraph 3 of the Japanese Copyright Act and partnered with the National Diet Library to upload accessible e-books. The NPO expanded its network through local business events, university collaborations, and social entrepreneur communities. Interviews underscored a decline in Braille library volunteers and severe delays in accessibility resources for minority languages like Mongolian. These findings will shape our future efforts to improve accessibility and self-directed learning for visually impaired individuals.