Old Dominion University (Old Dominion University, Darden College of Education & Professional Studies)

In this Early Career Research Development project, Dr. Kevin J. Mallary at Old Dominion University will address the accessibility needs of d/Deaf and hard of hearing (D/HH) patrons in academic libraries. Dr. Mallary will conduct multiple case studies at five institutions, employing interviews with academic librarians, disability services coordinators, and D/HH students to elicit academic librarians’ and disability services coordinators’ knowledge and experiences surrounding accessible library services to D/HH patrons and D/HH patrons’ knowledge and experiences concerning accessible library services. This project will inform the development of an innovative website for practitioners to contribute accessibility resources, share recommended practices, and build a community of practice for better serving D/HH patrons. Findings from this project will inform evidence-based practices for academic librarians and disability services coordinators to immediately enhance their daily interactions with D/HH patrons.