Accessibility of Digital Resources for Students with Disabilities in Kenyan Public Universities

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the accessibility of digital library resources for students with disabilities (SWDs) at six Kenyan public universities, focusing on the specific barriers and facilitators to equitable access. A qualitative research approach was employed, including semi-structured interviews with 45 SWDs and 20 library and IT staff, direct observations at the university libraries, and analysis of institutional documents. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The research revealed a gap between the availability of digital resources and their practical accessibility for SWDs. Key challenges fall into four sub-themes: limited accessible formats such as untagged scanned PDFs, inadequate navigation support on platforms, a lack of technical expertise among library staff, and a systemic deficit in formal training for both staff and students on assistive technologies. This study provides an empirical analysis of the barriers to digital accessibility in Kenyan public universities. It moves beyond observations to provide policy-informed insights into the challenges, offering a roadmap for implementing universal design principles and support systems.