Overview
This proposal recommends enhancing Rapido request forms within Alma/Primo to allow patrons to indicate accessibility requirements for PDF document delivery at the point of request. Capturing this information upstream enables resource sharing staff to proactively produce accessible documents, aligning workflows with current accessibility standards and regulatory requirements.
FOR FULL PROPOSAL SEE ATTACHED DOCUMENT

Proposed Solution
Introduce a configurable field within Rapido request forms labeled "Accessibility Needs".
Option 1: New Dedicated Field
• Add an optional checkbox or dropdown field:
o "I require an accessible PDF"
• When selected, display a conditional message:
o "Accessible PDFs require additional processing and may delay delivery."
Option 2: Extend Existing Field
• Repurpose or expand the "Level of Service – Digital" field to include an accessibility option.
• This approach minimizes UI changes while leveraging existing configuration structures.
Functional Behavior in Alma/Rapido
• The selected value is stored as structured request metadata.
• Requests with accessibility needs are:
o Clearly flagged in Alma Resource Sharing workflows
o Filterable/searchable in task lists
o Visible to staff during fulfillment
• Optional future enhancement:
o Trigger workflow rules, routing, or notes based on accessibility flag

Benefits
• Compliance Enablement: Supports institutional alignment with ADA Title II and WCAG standards
• Improved User Experience: Patrons can communicate needs without additional outreach
• Operational Efficiency: Reduces rework and duplicate processing
• Workflow Standardization: Introduces consistent handling of accessibility requests across institutions
• Consortial Value: Scales across Rapido networks, benefiting all participating libraries
Considerations
• Requests flagged for accessibility may require additional staff time for remediation (e.g., tagging, OCR correction, metadata validation)
• Clear patron-facing messaging is required to set expectations around delivery timelines
• Staff guidance or training may be needed to ensure consistent accessibility practices

Conclusion
Adding an Accessibility Needs field to Rapido request forms is a targeted, high-impact enhancement that aligns Alma/Primo workflows with evolving accessibility requirements. By enabling patron-driven input at the point of request, this change transforms accessibility from a reactive process into a built-in component of resource sharing service delivery.