Beyond accessibility

Slide from a panel session on the first day of the Copim Conference 2026, a hybrid event (26-27 February) focusing on the future of community-led open access books. Panel members and presentation titles: Open Book Accessibility: Joanne Fitzpatrick (Chair) Ethical motivations for producing accessible content: Tobe Amadi Open Access Publishing Through an Accessibility Lens: Anica Zeyen Abstract: The accessibility work package within the Copim Open Book Futures project has focused on helping small presses meet essential accessibility standards while recognising their limited capacity and diverse workflows. Our structured guidance enables publishers to get started quickly and to sustain meaningful conversations with libraries and readers in an increasingly complex accessibility landscape. This is valuable work - but what if we think bigger? This panel explores how accessibility can go beyond compliance to become a culture that aims for the highest technical standards, includes features beyond formal requirements, and is guided by ethical motivations and reader needs rather than legislation alone. Together, we will examine how accessibility can enhance the reading experience for everyone, supporting not only disabled individuals but all users, including the discoverability and usability of content by machines.