January 23, 2004

Dear Member of Parliament,

Did you know that publications in alternative formats (Braille, audiocassette, large print, etc.) represent only five per cent of Canada’s library materials?

Canadians who are blind, visually impaired or deafblind are frustrated by the lack of information available in alternative formats.  This shortage of printed material available in alternative format makes access to information extremely difficult.   Canada simply does not produce enough reading material in formats that are accessible to the blind, visually impaired and deafblind population.  

Many print challenged Canadians can only read library print material in alternative format.  Indeed thousands of Canadians who are blind, visually impaired or deafblind are accessing reading material in audio, e text or Braille.  But there is simply not enough material to meet the demand.

To its credit, since the International Year of Disabled Persons in 1981, the Canadian Government has made great strides in terms of providing equitable access to “government publications” in alternative format.   While I applaud these efforts, I would ask that government now apply its considerable knowledge and expertise in this area to the broader challenge of producing library material, including leisure reading material, in alternative format.

Many groups are working towards greater equality of access to information, especially for those who cannot read conventional print.   The problem is that the bulk of responsibility for the production of library material in alternative format currently rests on the shoulders of charitable organizations.   Without government support, there is no hope for improvement in this situation.   Clearly the time has come for the federal government to assist with the production of library material in alternative format.



With a federal election expected in the early Spring, I would like to ask for your help in moving this issue onto the political agenda.  I would ask that the Government of Canada commit to providing resources for the production of library content in alternative format.

Please let me know if there is any way that you can help me advance this file.  As my Member of Parliament, this is your opportunity to promote the principles of universal, affordable and equitable access to information for all Canadians.

Finally, I would ask that you forward a copy of this letter to the Minister of Heritage and the Minister of Finance.  In the meantime, I look forward to receiving your reply.   Thank you.  

Sincerely,


Name:
Address:
Phone number: