EXPLORING DIGITAL EQUITY AND INCLUSIVE ACCESS TO ELECTRONIC LIBRARY RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENT IN FEDERAL UNIVERSITY LAFIA, NASSARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study seeks to assess digital equity and inclusive access to electronic library resources for students with visual impairment in Federal University Lafia, Nassarawa State, Nigeria. Guided by five objectives translated into five research questions, the research adopted the descriptive survey design with a total population of 19 respondents who were all included in the study as such, no sample and sampling technique was required. Two instruments were used to gather data for the study, the electronic library resources questionnaire (DEIAELR) and an electronic resources and assistive technology observation checklist (EATOC). The Findings of the study revealed that majority of the electronic resources are available. However, most of the electronic resources are not accessible by the visually impaired students. Inadequate assistive technology, poor internet connection, lack of library website design, insufficient funding and inadequate electronic resources affects access to these electronic resources for the visually impaired students. The study further revealed that students with visual impairment do not experience digital equity to electronic resources as other sighted students and majority of the visually impaired students do not experience inclusivity in access to library resources. To achieve true digital equity and foster an inclusive learning environment, it is essential that the university libraries prioritize the development of accessible electronic resources through structured policies, inclusive initiatives and making available assistive technologies. This also demands ensuring that all digital materials are designed to meet the diverse needs of students, particularly those with visual impairments