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Library board adopts social‑media accessibility measures for posts
Summary
Trustees approved a revised online communications policy that adds expectations for translation and alt‑text on posts (Recite Me integration referenced). The policy aims to improve access across languages and visual/hearing impairments and directs staff to integrate accessibility into social posts.
The Red Hook Library board approved a revision to its online communications policy to include accessibility features for social posts and website content. The policy discussion focused on translation tools (Recite Me) and adding alt‑text requirements for images and videos used in library posts.
Why it matters: Speaker 4 said the library’s main website already includes translation tools and recommended the board codify similar accessibility standards for social media posts. "We just thought we should put it in our policy that any social media post driven by the library will also do the alt text," Speaker 4 said.
Implementation and scope: The board discussed practical steps — adding alt tags to photos so users with visual impairments can read descriptions and using translation features for non‑English speakers. Speaker 6 noted Recite Me was funded through a joint grant with the village and may need a new funding source when that grant ends in December; trustees asked staff to add the accessibility guidance to posting procedures and to report back on implementation.
Procedural outcome: Speaker 4 moved to adopt the revised online communications policy, the motion was seconded and recorded in the meeting. Trustees agreed the change and requested staff follow up with technical and cost details, including how translation and alt‑text will be integrated into routine social posting.
Ending: The policy change was adopted; staff were directed to implement alt‑text and translation practices and to provide follow‑up guidance and any funding implications to trustees.
