IN 2020, DPL began exploring options for transitioning their publications from PDFs to a fully digital, web-based format. Danielle Brooks, Marketing Manager at DPL, was tasked with addressing the challenges posed by their publications’ existing format. “ “At the time, we were publishing those as PDFs on the website, and, for a number of reasons—one primarily being accessibility—I was looking for another solution,” Brooks explained.”
A critical evaluation of available platforms revealed most solutions often lacked adequate accessibility features, such as screen reader compatibility. Accessibility is a top priority for the library, given the library’s mission to serve all community members equitably. Recent legislation also called all organizations to a higher legal standard of web and digital accessibility for the public.
After researching alternatives, DPL selected Nxtbook Media’s PageRaft platform. PageRaft stood out for its robust accessibility features, seamless features between their website and publication, and Nxtbook Media’s deep understanding of accessibility needs. “For the first time in conversations with organizations about accessibility, [Nxtbook Media] immediately responded with their accessible magazine version of accessibility features for their platform. And I thought, ‘Oh, see, now we’re talking. This is what I was looking for.’”
PageRaft’s browser compatibility and straightforward navigation ensured content could be easily accessed by users on various devices, including those utilizing assistive technologies. Brooks noted, “I knew in 2020 that there were better ways to do this, and PageRaft offered a solution that wasn’t just visually appealing but also inclusive.”
