LibA11y: accessibility for LibGuides: 1.3 Simple Testing Tools

In part two we will outline strategies for creating accessible content and how to test for issues. But to test, we must first install a simple tool that can help you double check your work as it is created.

The Tota11y javascript bookmarklet was created by the Kahn Academy to visualize how web content is perceived by screen readers and other assistive technology.

Install option 1: bookmarklet

Is your bookmarks bar visible in your browser? If so, try this option. To install, click and hold the Tota11y button in the box below, then drag the link up into your bookmarks bar. To activate the tool, simply click the bookmark.

tota11y

Install option 2: Chrome or Firefox extension

This same tool has also been adapted to be a Chrome and Firefox extension. Install the extension and you'll see the eyeglasses icon in your toolbar, which you can click to activate.

• Tota11y Chrome extension
• Opena11y Firefox extension

1. Go to the page you wish to evaluate
2. Click the Tota11y bookmark you just installed (or the Chrome extension icon).
3. A black x-ray glasses icon will appear at the bottom left corner of your page (screenshot above).
4. Clicking the glasses, you'll see a pop-up menu with choices such as Headers, Contrast, and Image alt-text.
5. Clicking one of these options will provide information and screen annotations and track any errors.
6. Dismissing the tools
   • Clicking the option a second time dismisses the report.
   • Similarly clicking the glasses again minimizes the tool.

We will review many of Tota11y's tools in the following pages as we talk about how to create better content.