On November 21, 2024, the Tiflološki Muzej (Typhlological Museum) in Zagreb hosted an education session titled Accessibility for All. The goal of this session was to equip cultural professionals with theoretical and practical knowledge necessary for working with visitors with disabilities and to encourage reflection on the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in museums.
Attending the session were curators from the Cultural Heritage Protection Department of the Public Institution National Park Brijuni, who had the opportunity to expand their knowledge through lectures and workshops on adapting content and environments to ensure accessibility for all visitors, including those with disabilities.
The training was structured in a modular format and led by experts from various fields, including individuals with disabilities who shared their personal experiences to provide deeper insights into accessibility challenges. Each participant received a printed guidebook, Accessibility for All, an excellent resource for implementing inclusive methods and practices in museums and other cultural institutions.
The session also addressed guidelines for communicating with visitors with hearing or vision impairments (sign language, Braille), practical advice on adapting digital content, such as creating more accessible websites, and lectures on understanding the autism spectrum in both children and adults. It included recommendations for implementing assistive communication in museums, such as quiet hours, calm spaces, and sensory backpacks.
A special emphasis was placed on the importance of continuous education for cultural professionals to improve their understanding and adaptation to visitors with disabilities, thereby fostering inclusive museums where everyone feels welcome and at ease. The next education session is planned for spring 2025.
Text by: Vera Jelenić Gašić
Photos by: Renato Vukić