Access Cavan

Accessibility is at the core of library work and the services we deliver. Key Accessibility Actions delivered in 2012 are as follows:

A.   Harnessing advances in Information Technology

Launch of Library Website and Social Media Jan 2012. Every effort was made to ensure best practice in website accessibility was delivered.

B.   Improving library infrastructure

Departmental funding was secured in October 2012 for Belturbet library shelving, furniture, fittings, Information Technology and stock. Accessibility was a central plank of the procurement procedures applied to this funding, as is clear in all specifications, documentation etc.

C.   Delivering quality services

Accessibility was central to delivery of all services and was reflected in a number of initiatives, as follows:

One Cavan, One Writer Initiative

Focus on discrimination and difference in lectures and competitions.

Dialogues through Literature/ Peregrine Readings / Fleadh 2012 at the library

Inclusive approach to related events. Specific Accessibility events held in the library to mark Accessibility Day and Social Inclusion week.

Specific Library Events for People with Disabilities

Examples:

• Coffee Mornings in co-operation with the NCBI for people with visual impairments at Johnston Central and Cootehill Libraries. Promotional work carried out over 2012 to develop usage by People with Disabilities of adaptive and assistive technology in full- time libraries.
• Weekly meetings in Cootehill library with Employability Monaghan to assist jobseekers with a disability to secure and maintain employment. (36 meetings in total in 2012)

Worked with a number of agencies in 2012

We worked with a agencies that deal specifically with Disability including NCBI / Irish Wheelchair Association and H.S.E.