Libraries Empowering Differently-abled Students in Higher Education Institutions in Tamil Nadu – A Study

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dc.contributor.authorA Bagavathi
dc.contributor.authorKumar, S K Asok
dc.date.accessioned2025-12-03T12:30:19Z
dc.date.available2025-12-03T12:30:19Z
dc.date.issued2025-12-02
dc.description14th International CALIBER 2025, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, November 17-19, 2025
dc.description.abstractThis study explores the transformative role of academic libraries in empowering differently- abled students across Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Tamil Nadu. Grounded in the mandates of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the research investigates how libraries are evolving into inclusive spaces through adaptive infrastructure, assistive technologies, and user-cantered services. Employing a mixed-method approach, the study draws from surveys and interviews conducted across ten HEIs, encompassing students, faculty, and library professionals. Findings reveal a high level of awareness regarding inclusive library services (90%), yet highlight persistent challenges in the implementation of assistive tools, staff training, and policy enforcement. While institutions like Tamil Nadu Open University, Bharathidasan University, and The Tamil Nadu Dr. Ambedkar Law University exemplify best practices through specialized labs and accessible learning materials, the majority of institutions still face systemic barriers including inadequate funding, infrastructure gaps, and limited faculty-library collaboration. The study emphasizes the critical need for institutional policy development, diversified investment in assistive technologies, ongoing professional training, and strategic partnerships with NGOs and technology providers. It concludes that while Tamil Nadu’s academic libraries are progressively advancing toward inclusivity, sustained efforts and systemic reforms are essential to ensure equitable academic participation for differently-abled students
dc.identifier.isbn9789381232149
dc.identifier.urihttps://ir.inflibnet.ac.in/handle/1944/2532
dc.language.isoen
dc.publisherINFLIBNET Centre Gandhinagar
dc.subjectAcademic Libraries
dc.subjectAccessibility
dc.subjectAccessible Infrastructure
dc.subjectAssistive Technology
dc.subjectDifferently Abled Students
dc.subjectDisability Rights
dc.subjectInclusive Education
dc.titleLibraries Empowering Differently-abled Students in Higher Education Institutions in Tamil Nadu – A Study
dc.typeArticle

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CALIBER 2025: Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh