Libraries work hard to make sure everyone in their community can find and use the resources they need. That commitment extends to the digital world, too, but figuring out where to start with web accessibility can feel overwhelming. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), can help clarify what accessible digital content in your library looks like. These guidelines build on previous standards and reflect the needs of users with a wide range of disabilities, including cognitive, motor, and visual differences.

What is WCAG?

At its core, WCAG is a set of recommendations designed to make websites more usable for more people. The latest updates include new considerations for mobile browsing, low vision users, and people with cognitive disabilities. 

Key considerations for libraries

Every library’s digital environment is different, but here are a few areas where the WCAG guidance can be especially helpful. Think of these less as a checklist and more as common starting points that many libraries find valuable:

Mobile accessibility
More and more patrons browse catalogs, place holds, or check hours on their phones. WCAG includes guidance to help ensure content works well on smaller screens and with touch gestures.

Low-vision support
Simple adjustments—such as ensuring text can reflow to fit different screen sizes or giving users enough color contrast—can make a big difference for patrons with low vision.

Cognitive accessibility
Clear instructions, predictable navigation, and avoiding unnecessary time limits can help many users, including those with cognitive disabilities, feel more confident as they move through your site.

Keyboard navigation
Some patrons rely entirely on a keyboard, often paired with assistive technologies. Ensuring that links, forms, and menus can all be accessed this way helps remove barriers.

Accessible multimedia
If your library shares videos, audio recordings, or other multimedia, check that captions, transcripts, and descriptions are available so everyone can engage with the content.

Resources you can lean on

If you’re exploring what WCAG means for your library, you don’t have to go it alone. These resources can help you take the next step, wherever you are in your journey:

WCAG Understanding Docs—These documents provide informative explanations for WCAG guidelines and success criteria.

Web accessibility evaluation tools—Tools like WAVE or Axe can highlight potential issues and help you understand what’s working well and what might need attention on your library’s website.

Library-focused accessibility toolkits—Many organizations, including ALA, provide guidance and examples tailored to library environments.

Community expertise—Whether it’s accessibility forums, disability organizations, or colleagues within your institution or local government, connecting with others can offer practical insight and support.