Great Moments in Government Overreach

DOJ Accuses San Diego Public Library of Discrimination

by mark perry

The Sacramento Public Library Authority partnered with Barnes and Noble on a trial basis to provide at least one NOOK e-book reader to each of its 28 libraries, pre-loaded with 20 books in a variety of genres.  Sure seems like a sensible,  innovative, market-based, consumer-friendly option now that so many people do their reading using Kindles, NOOKs, and iPads instead of print copies. 

So what's the problem? According to the Department of Justice (DOJ), the pilot e-reader program violates the Americans with Disabilities Act because it discriminates against blind patrons of the library, who can't use NOOK e-readers.  The library reached a costly settlement that requires it to purchase iPod touch and iPad devices, which read e-books aloud with a computerized voice.  DOJ has also directed the library not to buy any additional e-readers that exclude blind or disabled people; and it requires the library system to train its staff on ADA compliance.

Read the  whole story here.

Question: Doesn't the Sacramento Public Library's entire collection of books, magazines, and newspapers in hard copy also discriminate against its blind patrons?