From Collective Care to Compliance: A UX-Informed Approach to Web Accessibility Remediation in Academic Libraries

Abstract

In response to the U.S. Department of Justice’s final Title II rule on web accessibility, libraries are increasingly required to remediate complex web ecosystems under constrained timelines and capacity. While much accessibility guidance emphasizes technical compliance, less attention has been paid to the organizational, relational, and pedagogical dimensions of accessibility work in libraries. This practice-based report describes a UX-informed approach to web accessibility remediation in an academic library, grounded in principles of collective care, microlearning, and co-creation.

Positioning library employees as the primary users of accessibility systems, documentation, and workflows, this project applied a user experience (UX) design-inspired process to employee-facing implementation efforts. Interventions included accessibility audits combining automated and manual review, development of a web applications accessibility handbook, governance clarification, microlearning-based remediation strategies, collaborative “web editing parties,” and shared tracking mechanisms. Findings suggest that treating accessibility as a shared practice, rather than an individual compliance task, reduced overwhelm, increased engagement, and supported more sustainable remediation efforts.

Lessons learned highlight the importance of relational UX practices, documentation as infrastructure, and iterative learning. This report offers practical insights for libraries preparing for Title II compliance while seeking to cultivate inclusive and sustainable accessibility practices.