Topic Category: Services
Access Services include a wide range of accommodations, modifications, equipment, and support you can provide to ensure people with disabilities can have authentic, equitable, and enjoyable experiences with your organization.
Some access services and features are required by the ADA while others are recommended to ensure the maximum amount of equitable participation for the broadest range of people.
In this section of The Hub, you can learn about a range of access services you can provide at your organization as well as resources to help you offer them effectively and with care.
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Assistive Listening Systems
Assistive Listening Systems (ALSs) enhance sound accessibility for d/Deaf and hard of hearing individuals by using microphones, transmitters, and receivers to improve listening experiences in public spaces.
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Audio Description
Audio description provides narrated visual descriptions for individuals who are blind or have low vision, which enhances accessibility during live performances, exhibits, and media displays.
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Braille
Braille is a tactile writing system that enhances accessibility for blind or low-vision individuals. Cultural organizations can improve engagement by providing braille materials like programs, signage, and guides in accordance with ADA requirements.
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Captioning (open, closed, CART)
Captioning converts spoken language and audio cues into written text, ensuring accessibility for people who are d/Deaf or hard of hearing. It can be applied to in-person, virtual, live, and recorded events to enhance inclusivity and comprehension.
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Large Print
Large print is an accessible communication aid that provides printed materials in a larger, easy-to-read font. It supports individuals with low vision, ensuring that they can access information in both physical and digital formats.
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Live Streaming
Live streaming can enhance accessibility for cultural experiences through decreasing barriers to participation for individuals who have difficulty attending in-person events, as well as through incorporating essential access services like captioning, sign language interpretation, and audio description.
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Mobility Devices
Offering mobility devices for loan or rent enhances independence and accessibility for visitors with limited mobility, allowing them to fully engage with exhibits and events while promoting inclusivity and autonomy.
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Preparation (“Know Before you Go”) Materials
"Know Before You Go" materials provide essential and accessible pre-visit information — such as wayfinding, sensory elements, and available services — to help all visitors prepare for and feel more comfortable during their visit.
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Providing Services and Fulfilling Requests
Providing accessibility services for people with disabilities involves clear, transparent processes for requesting accommodations, such as alternate formats or sign language interpreters, while empowering both visitors and staff to navigate the request process with confidence.
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Seating
Accessible seating options consider the various physical, communication, and logistical needs that patrons may have, ensuring equal participation for all visitors while reflecting your organization’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
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Sensory Friendly and Relaxed Events
Sensory-friendly events create welcoming and neurodivergent-affirming experiences by modifying the sensory, physical, cognitive, and social elements of a space, which helps neurodivergent individuals feel comfortable and able to fully participate.
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Sensory Services
Neurodiversity-affirming sensory services aim to create inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals through a range of accommodations developed in collaboration with the community, from simple adjustments to more substantial changes.
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Service Animal Accommodations
Accommodating service animals in arts and culture spaces supports the independence, safety, and inclusion of people with disabilities, while also demonstrating legal compliance and a commitment to accessibility and respect for all visitors.
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Sighted Guides
Sighted guides assist individuals who are blind or have low vision by providing safe navigation, clear communication, and respect for personal preferences, all of which fosters independence and provides an accessible and welcoming experience.
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Sign Language Interpretation
Sign language interpretation is an essential service for d/Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, enabling real-time, equitable communication between signed and spoken languages through qualified professionals who prioritize cultural sensitivity and accessibility.
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Tactile Language Interpretation
Tactile language interpretation is an essential service that enables effective communication for DeafBlind individuals, ensuring inclusion and equity when provided by qualified professionals who prioritize cultural sensitivity and accessibility.
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Ticketing and Admissions
Ticketing and admission processes must be designed to ensure equitable access through providing accessible seats, transparent purchasing, and effective communication, all of which can enhance inclusivity and legal compliance.
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Touch and Tactile Services
Tactile and touch-based experiences provide nonvisual access to art, artifacts, and performances through direct touch, tactile materials, and models, in order to engage blind and visually impaired visitors as well as a wide range of audiences.