Posted on: December 9, 2025
The EBSCO eBooks collection (also integrated within search results in the Library Discovery search) now includes enhanced accessibility features designed to support readers with diverse abilities. Whether you use screen readers, need adjustable text spacing, or prefer listening to content, these improvements make reading easier and more flexible. Here’s an overview of what’s available now and what’s just been updated within the EBSCO eBooks platform to make it more accessible.
Disclaimer: These accessibility features are currently available only in the EBSCO eBooks collection, not in other databases. Hopefully they will be, soon, though!
Current Accessibility Features
For Blind and Low-Vision Users
- Tested with leading screen readers: JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack.
- Keyboard operability and color contrast validated across browsers.
- Zoom up to 200% for PDFs and 250% for EPUBs.
- EPUB content is reflowable for better readability.
- Adobe Digital Editions supports screen readers and high-contrast mode for full downloads.
For Users with Dyslexia
- Dyslexia-friendly fonts across interfaces.
- Adjustable text size and spacing controls for EPUBs.
- Integrated text-to-speech for PDFs and EPUBs.
- EPUB downloads allow font customization with third-party tools.
For Colour Vision Impairments
- Minimum color contrast standards.
- Development tools validate color contrast during design.
For Keyboard Users
- “Skip to Main Content” link for easier navigation in the eBook viewer.
For Deaf Users
- No audio or video content, full access to text.
What’s New
EBSCO eBooks has introduced several new features to enhance accessibility:
Alternative Format Workflow
Users can now request alternative formats for eBooks that don’t meet their needs. Files are provided for exclusive use and in formats based on publisher availability.
Spacing Controls for EPUBs
Adjust character, word, and line spacing in EPUB eBooks using the display and text size tool in the viewer.
Accessibility Information in Detailed Records
Detailed eBook records now display accessibility information, including:
- Available formats
- DRM-free status
- Language
- Content accessibility for EPUB titles
- Link to full accessibility metadata (verification, validation, and feature list).
Text-to-Speech for PDFs and EPUBs
Integrated in the eBook viewer, this feature lets users control reading speed, choose accents, and customize highlighting colors.
If you’re interested in reading more about EBSCO’s accessibility commitment, check out the following resources:
eBook Accessibility User Guide and FAQs
Accessibility Improvements for EBSCO eBooks
Feature image: Photo by Spencer on Unsplash. Reused under the Unsplash License.
