Improving the university library experience of students with intellectual disabilities: a case study from an Irish institution

This article describes a project on library engagement in an Irish university, involving certificate students with intellectual disabilities and librarians. It provides an opportunity for this project team (named above) to showcase to a wider audience, the value of inclusive, action research in resolving real-life challenges. Contributions in the paper touch on the higher education setting for students with disabilities as well as project aims and processes. These include getting University approval and funding, team setup, using focus groups to explore barriers to library use to using findings to create a student-centred library orientation video. Project outcomes include an accessible learning tool for and by students with intellectual disabilities and greater staff insights into the lived experience of this student group. Significantly, students have become powerful advocates for fellow students and have ensured that they are now visible members of the library community.