Page 107 - RUICHSS 2023 Proceeding

University of Ruhuna ISSN: 2706-0063
Matara, Sri Lanka

and Information Science (VICLIS), organised by the SLTC Research University Sri Lanka.
The sample consisted of 25 papers that were submitted to VICLIS conferences by Library and
Information Science (LIS) scholars from eight different countries. Following a screening
process, 10 articles from India, Indonesia, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka were chosen and subjected
to theme analysis. The availability of assistive technology devices in university libraries and
themes like improving reading and writing skills in visually impaired students were found to
be prevalent in LIS research. Other themes included the difficulties faced by users with
disabilities, the role of libraries in supporting students with disabilities and repackaging
information to meet user needs. The results suggest that the library service should adopt the
new theme of "Inclusive Library Service." In addition to providing Braille books, addressing
information access problems, promoting accessibility in library buildings, and putting the
Marrakesh Treaty into effect to support students who are blind or visually impaired, LIS
researchers have advised doing the following things. Libraries have a significant impact on
the empowerment of people with special needs. To improve inclusive education, future LIS
research should focus on assistive technologies, information literacy for individuals with
disabilities, collection development, and professional development requirements in libraries.

Keywords: Accessibility, Inclusive Library Services, Library Services, Social Inclusion,
Special Needs

1. Introduction and Research Problem

According to UNICEF, inclusive education makes sure that all children,

including those who speak minority languages or have impairments, have
equal opportunity to access and participate in school (UNICEF, n.d.). In order

to develop social cohesion, promote equality, and enable people to realise their
full potential, this principle is based on the belief that every individual has a

right to be included and respected within the educational community. In order

to facilitate inclusive education, the area of library and information science
(LIS) is essential (Moirangthem & Phuritsabam, 2022). Assuring that libraries

and information centers are open to everyone, regardless of background or

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