Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 25 years ago, coeditor Bradford has brought personal experience to the task of compiling this directory of more than 8,000 entries for organizations, corporations, and associations that provide resources and information for people living with disabilities. The entries are preceded by essays discussing such issues as teaching and communicating with the disabled and making libraries more accessible.
The directory proper has four broad subject areas subdivided into a further 26 subsections. By far the largest and most comprehensive section is the one on assistive technology. Its 2,303 entries are grouped into three subcategories: "Computers and Technology," "Daily Living Aids," and "Mobility and Transportation." This is followed by sections on funding sources, organizations and associations, and "Other Resources," which includes conferences, publications, and publishers. Within each category, entries are alphabetically arranged. Each entry includes complete name, address, telephone and fax, and a "disability served" field. Occasionally Web sites are given. Most entries also include brief descriptions. Each entry is numbered, and it is this numbering that serves as the finding aid via the indexes.
"Funding Sources" lists organizations that have funding available for education, publications that deal with the grantsmanship and funding, some institutions that do research in disabilities, and companies that provide funding to help people with disabilities purchase assistive devices and technology. The section on organizations and associations provides some of the same information that can be found in other directories, such as The Encyclopedia of Associations (Gale, annual), but here there is a slant toward disability issues. Here one will also find lists of independent-living centers throughout the U.S., libraries, rehabilitation centers, and advocacy groups. There are several indexes. A disabilities index is organized into very broad categories--back injury, chemical dependency, hearing, etc.--broken down further by state. If one is searching for more specific information, such as resources on fybromyalgia or cochlear implants, the index is not helpful. There is also a state and city index and an organization name index.
The strength of the directory is the section on assistive technology. This on its own is an excellent compilation and will require regular updating and revising. The large-print format makes the directory attractive for those with low vision. Recommended for libraries needing sources for disability information, especially related to assistive technology and devices.
Review
"An extremely valuable and greatly needed resource for people with disabilities and those who serve them."
"Recommended"- Nancy Law, Vice President, Client Programs Department, National Multiple Sclerosis Society -- George B. Kerford, Ph.D., President/CEO, World Association of Persons with Disabilities
