Digital Innovation for Inclusive Academic Libraries: Developing an Accessible Disability Corner Service through Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration
Haryanto Haryanto, Masriyatun Masriyatun, Argyo Demartoto

Universitas Sebelas Maret

Abstract

Academic libraries were increasingly expected to provide accessible and inclusive services to support students with disabilities in the digital era. However, many libraries continued to face challenges in delivering integrated digital services due to limited accessibility features, fragmented support mechanisms, and insufficient stakeholder collaboration. This study aimed to explore how digital innovation could strengthen Disability Corner services through multi-stakeholder collaboration at Universitas Sebelas Maret Library, Indonesia. A qualitative research design was employed using Focus Group Discussions, observations, and document analysis involving librarians, disability studies experts, special education practitioners, healthcare professionals, university representatives, and students with disabilities. The findings revealed that digital innovation should extend beyond technological improvement by integrating accessible digital library platforms, online assistance request systems, dedicated service facilitators, collaborative volunteer networks, and mental health support into a unified service ecosystem. The study also identified the importance of active stakeholder participation in designing user-centered services that respond to the diverse needs of students with disabilities. These collaborative efforts contributed to the development of a more accessible, inclusive, and sustainable academic library environment. This study concluded that digital innovation supported by multi-stakeholder collaboration represented a practical strategy for enhancing Disability Corner services and strengthening inclusive higher education. The proposed service model may serve as a reference for academic libraries seeking to improve accessibility and promote equitable participation for students with disabilities.

Keywords: Academic libraries, digital accessibility, digital innovation, Disability Corner, multi-stakeholder collaboration

Topic: Resilient Library and Information Ecosystems (Information literacy- Library Information Ecosystems- Library Resilience)