Pressbooks Accessibility
What
Update/create accessible Pressbooks by using built-in formatting.
Why
Students who use screen readers can navigate a document more easily when formatting has been applied. Using built-in formatting also supports those with learning differences as it displays more clearly and consistently.
Focus for 2025-26 Academic Year
- Use headings
- Create descriptive text for hyperlinks
- Add alt text, a caption, or describe images in the body of the page
- See Images & Diagrams for more details
- Use bulleted or numbered lists for formatting
Examples
- Candidate to convert: In R&R Day 1, Session 1, consider copying the content from PULM – Chapter 1 – Airways and Airspaces – Course Pack into a Pressbook chapter.
- Existing Pressbook: Review the Foundations of Clinical Medicine Pressbook for items from the Focus checklist.
More Resources
- Pressbook guide with best practices and instructions: UW Libraries Pressbooks Accessibility Guide
A More Detailed Why
Using the built-in formatting tools in Pressbooks significantly enhances accessibility for all users. Web-based formats allow for responsive design, enabling text resizing, high-contrast modes, and compatibility across devices. They are easier to remediate for accessibility than PDF files. Web pages also reduce technical barriers, as users don’t need to download large files or have specific software installed. This approach creates an inclusive experience, ensuring that learners with visual, cognitive, or mobility challenges can access materials seamlessly.
Note about PDFs
Properly structured Pressbooks can be converted into accessible PDFs when exporting for Digital Distribution. However, we recommend only using PDFs when necessary.