Webinar Announcement: EU Accessibility Act and Research Libraries

• February 10, 2025

Date: 19 February 2025
Time: 14:00 – 15:00 (CET)
Location: Online

The EU Accessibility Act (EAA), set to take effect on 28 June 2025, introduces regulations designed to enhance accessibility across the EU. Extending beyond existing obligations for public sector bodies, the EAA will require commercial products and services—including books, journals, online content, and library technologies—to be accessible to individuals with disabilities.

To support research libraries in understanding and navigating these changes, the LIBER Copyright & Legal Matters Working Group is hosting a webinar to explore the key aspects of the EAA, its implications for the library sector, and the benefits it offers for fostering inclusivity.

What to Expect

This session will provide:

• An overview of the legal requirements under the EAA.
• Insights into the importance of accessibility in promoting inclusivity.
• Practical guidance on ensuring library content and systems are accessible to all users.

Speakers and Agenda:

• Jennifer Curry Jahnke, Digital Accessibility Manager, University of Birmingham:
  Jennifer will open the session with an overview of the EU Accessibility Act, focusing on its legal impact on research libraries.
• Simon Holt, Senior Product Manager, Content Accessibility, Elsevier:
  Simon will share his professional and personal experience ensuring that books, journals, and multimedia content meet accessibility standards.
• Ted Gies, UX and Accessibility Program Manager, Elsevier:
  Ted will discuss his extensive work in accessibility training, inclusive STEM content, and accessible data visualizations.

Meet the Speakers

• Jennifer Curry Jahnke: An award-winning academic and consultant, Jennifer is a global expert in digital accessibility and a certified member of the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP).
• Simon Holt: A senior accessibility advocate with over 15 years in scholarly publishing, Simon also serves in leadership roles for multiple accessibility-focused organizations.
• Ted Gies: A UX designer and global accessibility expert, Ted has developed training programs and accessibility tools used across STEM fields.

Why Attend?

This webinar offers valuable insights into how research libraries can adapt to the EAA’s requirements and make strides toward inclusivity. Whether you are a library professional, policymaker, or academic leader, this event will equip you with the knowledge and tools to prepare for the upcoming changes.

Register Here

LIBER is committed to fostering inclusive, respectful, and safe environments for collaboration and intellectual dialogue. Participants are expected to abide by the LIBER Code of Conduct.