Creating Inclusive Libraries by Applying Universal Design

Carli Spina is associate professor and head of research & instructional services at SUNY’s Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. She holds a J. from the University of Chicago Law School, an MLIS from Simmons GSLIS, and an MEd from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. While at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, she completed coursework on accessibility and Universal Design, including taking a course from Prof. David H. Rose, who defined Universal Design for Learning. This educational background offers her a unique perspective on Universal Design, accessibility, and services for disabled patrons that considers legal, pedagogical, and practical considerations. Spina has extensive experience working on projects related to accessibility, Universal Design, user experience, and technology in libraries as well as serving as a coordinator for services to patrons with disabilities. She served as the inaugural chair of LITA's Diversity and Inclusion Committee and as the leader of the ASCLA Library Services to People with Visual or Physical Disabilities That Prevent Them from Reading Standard Print Interest Group. She has worked with a number of professional organizations, libraries, and other organizations to offer training and support on Universal Design, inclusion, and accessibility. She has also written extensively on disability, accessibility, and Universal Design, including for Theological Librarianship, Marketing Libraries Journal, the Association of Research Libraries, WeaveUX (forthcoming), and School Library Journal.