Assistive Technologies in Greek Libraries

Abstract

To investigate the current use of assistive technologies (AT) in Greek libraries, unveil the relationship between AT suppliers and library authorities and achieve a better understanding of companies' and libraries' perspective. Design/methodology/approach -- Survey methodology has been used as the basic research tool by sending mailed questionnaires to AT enterprises and libraries. Findings -- Overall, the study stresses the lack of AT in Greek libraries. It depicts that the current legal and regulatory framework as regards AT is insufficient and concludes that libraries are not interested in such products and services. Research limitations/implications -- Several libraries chose not to participate in this research probably because they were totally unaware and unfamiliar with disability and AT issues and consequently, they did not have anything to state. Originality/value -- This paper is useful for information professionals who seek a greater understanding of the extent to which AT products are used in library authorities of Greece, since there is almost no literature and research relevant to this topic.