Library staff's understanding of attitudinal barriers experienced by individuals with disabilities in libraries

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate how library staff understand disability and attitudinal barriers and how they use their knowledge of attitudinal barriers when planning programs and services for individuals with disabilities. Design/methodology/approach This study took a generic qualitative approach to examining how library staff understand disability and attitudinal barriers. Participants were recruited through emails to professional library associations throughout the United States of America. Emails directed participants to a screening questionnaire, and 15 respondents were selected to participate in semi-structured interviews. Findings The results of the study showed that participants were aware of attitudinal barriers, but attitudinal barriers were not often considered during the planning and implementation of library programs and services. Originality/value This study is one of a limited body of work examining library staff's understanding of attitudinal barriers to library services for individuals with disabilities.