Abstract
In Japan, most public libraries do not provide sufficient easy-reading materials or make available reading facilities suitable for Japanese children with dyslexia. Public libraries in the Netherlands almost always have “easy-to-read squares” (Makkelijk Lezen Plein, MLP). The MLP is a special provision for children with reading difficulties, allowing them to see, read, and listen to books in various ways. The purpose of this study was to assess information accessibility for children with dyslexia in Japanese public libraries and develop ways to improve it. To achieve this, we investigated libraries in several countries and compared provisions for children with dyslexia in public libraries overseas with those in Japan. Our study focused on easy-to-read books in the MLPs of eight public libraries in the Netherlands and three in Belgium, and information was gathered through interviews with library personnel. The investigated public libraries in the Netherlands and Belgium provide sufficient easy-reading materials as well as reading facilities suitable for all children, including children with dyslexia. The MLPs were designed for all children, and it was found that children liked books placed out in front that they could see easily and books that had the same sticker in each field. The MLPs carefully selected books for simple language, clear layout, appealing covers, and attractive content. Overall, according to respondents, they were effective at fostering reading among all children. The concept of the MLP might be able to have the opportunity to read more books in all Japanese children.
Author Information
Hanae Ikeshita-Yamazoe, Sagami Women’s University, Japan
Paper Information
Conference: LibEuro2016
Stream: Library research and development
This paper is part of the LibEuro2016 Conference Proceedings (View)
Full Paper
View / Download the full paper in a new tab/window
Comments
Powered by WP LinkPress