The European Accessibility Act (EAA) and its implications for ebooks

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) and its implications for ebooks

1. Mandatory Accessibility Requirements

·        Self-publishers must ensure that their ebooks are accessible to persons with disabilities.

·        This includes compatibility with screen readers, adjustable text size and color contrast, and proper navigation structure.

2. Compliance Deadline

·        The EAA comes into full effect on June 28, 2025.

·        Self-publishers need to ensure their ebooks meet accessibility requirements by this date to continue selling in the EU market.

3. Technical Standards

·        Publishers will need to comply with specific technical standards, likely including EPUB Accessibility 1.0 and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA.

·        This may require learning new skills or investing in tools to create compliant ebooks.

4. Metadata Requirements

·        Accessible ebooks must include accessibility metadata describing their features.

·        This helps readers understand the accessibility features before purchasing.

5. Market Access

·        Non-compliant ebooks may be restricted from the EU market after the compliance deadline.

·        This could significantly impact sales potential for self-publishers who don't adapt.

·        Non-compliance could lead to legal challenges or fines.

·        The exact enforcement mechanisms may vary by EU member state.

7. Production Costs

-        Creating accessible ebooks may increase production costs and time.

-        This could include expenses for training, tools, or outsourcing to accessibility experts.

8. Distribution Channels

·        Self-publishers may need to ensure their chosen distribution platforms support and properly display accessible ebook formats

9. Opportunity for Differentiation

·        Early adopters of accessibility standards may gain a competitive advantage in the EU market.

·        This could lead to increased visibility and sales potential.

10. Global Impact

·        While the EAA is an EU regulation, its effects may influence global accessibility standards for ebooks.

·        Self-publishers may find it beneficial to apply these standards universally, not just for EU-targeted titles.



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