Event Accessibility Resources
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Last Updated: Feb 28, 2026, 09:32 AM
Why is Accessibility Important?
At SIU Carbondale, we aim to ensure full access for all members of our community, including those with disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires that programs and services be accessible to people with disabilities. Planning for accessibility improves the experience for everyone.
At a temporary event, persons with disabilities must be able to:
- Obtain information and directions prior to the event
- Find and use accessible parking
- Get from accessible parking to entrances
- Get additional information at the event
- Use public facilities and communications
- Select and purchase items at concessions
- Participate fully in activities
Event Advertisement Requirements
All event advertisements must include a statement describing how to request accommodations. This includes brochures, flyers, position announcements, web flyers, email blasts, Facebook event pages, SIU Today event ads, etc.
Sample statement
Disability accommodation requests should be made by [specific date] to [sponsoring department contact person, phone number, and email address]. More than one contact method is useful, or at least an email address, since not everyone uses telephone lines.
Include a specific deadline for accommodation requests so you can plan appropriately. The amount of lead time depends on the event. Those promoted months in advance or with early registration deadlines can require earlier notice, while events announced only a week or two ahead may allow requests up to a few days before. If an accommodation is already arranged, such as a sign language interpreter or open captioning, note that in the event advertisement.
Facility Access Considerations
- As an event planner, it is a good idea to review the accessibility features of the location you plan to use for your event. This will prepare you to answer questions regarding accessibility from interested parties.
- Careful consideration of an event space and facility location helps provide a more accessible and inclusive event for all participants.
- The ADA requires all buildings and facilities that are open to the public to be accessible. This includes temporary structures that are extensively used by or are essential for public use at an event.
Transit and Parking
- How would someone get to the building?
- Nearby ADA-designated parking
- Closest transit stops
Transportation
- Event planners providing transportation should utilize JAX as a provider for handicap accessible seating.
- View the Transportation Information page.
Route and Entrance
- The route from the ADA parking and transit to the entrance is flat and paved
- A ramp is available where exterior steps lead to the entrance
- Clear signage to an accessible entrance (if the main entrance is inaccessible) is present
- The door has a lever-style handle (not a knob) and is relatively light if the door is not automatic or held open
Wheelchair Access Services
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale does not provide wheelchairs for event use.
- Attendees who require wheelchairs or other mobility devices should be advised to bring their own.
- Event planners should share this information so attendees can plan ahead.
- If a participant believes that they may need a wheelchair, suggest that they search for local home health supply stores in our area.
Interior Event Location
- An elevator exists where programs are not on the main floor
- The furniture is movable, or in fixed seating areas, accessible seating options are available for participants with mobility disabilities
- Interior walkways are at least 36” wide, and doors are at least 32" wide
- There is plenty of space to maneuver around tables
- The lighting is good
- The acoustics are good, and in rooms where audio will be amplified (microphones), assistive listening devices are available for participants who are hard of hearing
- The stage and projector screen are easily visible (if in use)
- Restrooms with accessible stalls are located near the event location(s)
- Clear signage indicates the location of accessible restrooms and elevators
- Easy access to water or water fountains
- Electric cords crossing walkways are covered
Service Animals
- Service animals are permitted to attend on-campus events. For more information, please see information for the campus community on the Service Animals page.
Communication Access
- SIU Carbondale is committed to providing accessible communication to persons of all abilities. For more information, view the Communication Access page.
Sensory Environment
- Creating a sensory-friendly environment is an important aspect of making your event accessible.
- Guidance on what a sensory-friendly environment looks like and ways to implement elements into your event can be found on the Sensory Environment page.