Advancing Accessibility: A Timeline

Approximately 1.3 billion, or one in six, people experience disability worldwide (World Health Organization). Despite this high prevalence, people with disabilities have been oppressed and treated unequally and unfairly by ableist societies and systems since the beginning of history. There have, however, been many accessibility advancements and improvements, especially in technology and physical spaces, throughout time. These advancements have been essential to people with disabilities, but many have also positively impacted the entire population. This exhibit explores a variety of accessibility milestones and achievements, both nationally and locally at MSU, throughout time. We hope this exhibit and the featured accessibility and disability titles from our vast collection inspires visitors to expand their knowledge and appreciation of accessibility.

The MSU Libraries are committed to providing equal access to all library collections, services, and digital and physical spaces. Where we do not achieve accessibility, we welcome all accommodation requests and feedback

The Libraries follow MSU’s Digital Accessibility Policy & Technical Guidelines.