The Prince George Public Library is looking to remove barriers and improve accessibility for the 54,921 cardholders and others who use the library’s programs, services, and collections.
It will be reviewed by a professional Accessibility Assessor from the Rick Hansen Foundation as the library looks to earn the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification.
The certification rates a site’s overall level of meaningful access. Buildings can only receive certification with a rating over 60%.
Both the Bob Harkins and Nechako Branches will be assessed; PGPL is one of only a handful of libraries taking a rating in British Columbia to date.
“Two of PGPL’s strategic priorities are inclusivity and accessibility, and we recognize that there are barriers in our branches that prevent people in our community from participating in our programs and using our services,” said Ignacio Albarracin, Public Service Manager, in a statement.
“We look forward to receiving the RHFAC rating so that we can work to make the library more welcoming for all people, throughout all stages of their lives.”
Today, one in seven Canadian have a disability but that number is expected to rise to one in five by 2036.
The assessment is being made Tuesday.