Accessibility Statement

Our Commitment to Accessibility

The Homeland Security & Defense Library (HSDL) is committed to providing a website that is accessible to the broadest possible audience, regardless of technology or ability. We strive to meet or exceed the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA standards published by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C).

Accessibility Features

HSDL includes the following accessibility features:

• Keyboard Navigation: All functionality is accessible using the keyboard. You can navigate through links, buttons, and form fields using the Tab key, and activate them using Enter or Space.
• Screen Reader Compatible: The site is designed to work with screen readers like NVDA, JAWS, and VoiceOver. Semantic HTML and ARIA labels provide context for users with visual impairments.
• Resizable Text: You can increase or decrease text size using your browser settings without loss of functionality.
• Color Contrast: Text and interactive elements meet WCAG AA color contrast requirements (at least 4.5:1 for normal text).
• Skip Links: A "Skip to main content" link at the top of each page allows you to bypass repetitive navigation.
• Form Labels: All form fields have associated labels and error messages are clearly identified.
• Semantic Structure: Headings, lists, and other semantic elements provide logical structure for navigation and understanding.
• Focus Indicators: Keyboard focus is clearly visible at all times, with a minimum 2px indicator.

Known Limitations

While we strive for full accessibility, some limitations may exist. We are committed to addressing these and welcome your feedback:

• PDF Documents: Older PDF files in the collection may not be fully accessible. We are working to provide alternative formats and descriptions for complex documents.
• Third-Party Content: Some content hosted by external partners may have accessibility limitations beyond our direct control. We work with partners to improve accessibility where possible.
• Complex Data Visualizations: While we provide text alternatives and descriptions, some complex charts or graphs may require additional context.

Technical Standards

HSDL meets or exceeds the following accessibility standards:

• WCAG 2.1 Level AA: Web Content Accessibility Guidelines version 2.1, Level AA conformance
• Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act: U.S. federal accessibility requirements
• EN 301 549: European standard for digital accessibility
• ADA Title II: Americans with Disabilities Act digital accessibility requirements

View our full Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR) for detailed technical specifications.

Accessibility Resources & Tips

We provide tools and resources to help you use HSDL effectively:

• Help & Support — Learn how to use HSDL features
• Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) — General accessibility information
• NVDA Screen Reader — Free, open-source screen reader
• JAWS Screen Reader — Commercial screen reader
• VoiceOver — Built-in screen reader for Apple devices

Legal & Compliance

HSDL's accessibility efforts comply with applicable U.S. federal laws and regulations:

• Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• OMB M-23-22: Strengthening Digital Accessibility and the Management of Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act