This project explores significant challenges that hinder “Digital Information Access in Cultural Institutions” and recommendations for best technological practices. Our team investigated the specific challenges that affect a wide range of users: supporting access for users of diverse socio-economic backgrounds; designing shareable databases; supporting access to speakers of diverse languages and members of diverse cultural backgrounds; and implementing accessibility best practices into existing digital platforms and collections. We hope to support other professionals struggling with these challenges in their own work through detailed explorations of the nuances of each of these issues and suggested solutions pulled from best practices in the field.

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Key problems: 

• Accessibility: Many websites and digital collections for cultural heritage institutions were developed without taking into consideration accessibility and inclusive design. How do the staff of these cultural institutions begin the process of improving the accessibility of these digital materials?

• Elitism and Exclusion: It is unfortunately common for cultural institutions to uphold elitist and exclusionary attitudes and ideas. These institutions should feel welcoming for all visitors, and so should their digital materials. How can cultural institutions promote a sense of belonging on their websites for people of varying socioeconomic statuses, languages, literacies, and educational attainments?

• Information Sharing: The majority of collecting cultural institutions have databases for their collections. However, these databases are rarely interoperable with the databases of other institutions. How can staff at cultural institutions improve interoperability across platforms and institutions in order to facilitate the sharing of cultural information?

• Language and Translation: Regarding the access of museums internationally, online resources such as official websites and institutional pages are always the first for the audience to check. But due to internet speed delays, online forbidden bans, or language translation issues, do American audiences really access the Chinese exhibitions the same way as Chinese themselves?