Accessibility features
Accessibility features are what people use to decide whether they can attend. Get them right. A checked box with no context is better than nothing, but a note that says "Accessible entrance on Elm St." is the thing that lets someone plan their trip.
The accessibility section is in the event edit form, below the location fields. Check each feature the event actually provides, and add notes where specifics matter.
The features
- ASL Interpretation
- An ASL interpreter is present for the event. In the notes, specify if interpretation covers the full event or only certain segments. If it's provided on request rather than automatically, note that too — "ASL interpretation available on request, contact organizer 48 hours in advance" is useful information.
- Audio Description
- Live or recorded audio description is provided for visual content — performances, presentations, exhibits. Note the delivery method if relevant: headset receivers available at the door, built into the livestream, etc.
- Braille Materials
- Program materials, handouts, or other documents are available in braille. If attendees need to request them in advance, say so in the notes: "Braille programs available; request by [date]."
- Captioning / CART
- Real-time captions are provided, either by CART (Communication Access Realtime Translation) or auto-captioning. If it's CART, say so — it signals professional quality. If captions are only available in a specific format (projected on screen, viewed on a personal device, via app), note that.
- Hearing Loop
- The venue has an induction loop system compatible with hearing aids set to the T-coil position. Note the coverage area if it doesn't cover the full room: "Hearing loop covers main seating area, not stage side tables."
- Sign Language
- Use this for signed languages other than ASL — BSL, PSE, or other regional sign languages. Specify which one in the notes.
- Wheelchair Accessible
- The venue is accessible to wheelchair users. This alone doesn't say much — add notes. Where is the accessible entrance? Is there a ramp, or only a lift? Is the lift reliable? "Step-free entry at north entrance on Oak St." is the kind of note that helps someone decide whether to go.
- Accessible Restrooms
- At least one accessible restroom is available at the venue. If it's not on the same floor as the event, or if there's a key to request, note it.
- Accessible Parking
- Accessible parking spaces are available near the venue. Note the location and how many spots if you know: "2 accessible spaces in the east lot off Main St." If the lot is shared with another facility, say so.
- Elevator Access
- An elevator serves the event space. Mention the elevator's location if the route isn't obvious, and whether attendees need to request access or use a key.
- Large Print Materials
- Printed materials are available in large print. As with braille, note if advance request is required.
- Tactile Materials
- Tactile diagrams, maps, or hands-on objects are available — common at museum exhibits and educational programs. Describe what's tactile if it's specific.
- Quiet Space
- A designated quiet space is available somewhere at the venue for attendees who need a break from sensory stimulation. Note where it is and whether it's supervised or self-serve.
- Guide Dog Relief Area
- A designated outdoor relief area for guide and service dogs is available. Note its location relative to the venue entrance.
- Service Animals Welcome
- Service animals are explicitly welcome. This is legally required in most public venues, but checking this box confirms it's been verified and signals that the organizer is aware. Note any venue-specific arrangements if relevant.
Writing good notes
Notes appear on the event detail page, directly below the feature label. They're public-facing — write them for an attendee who's deciding whether to go, not for internal tracking.
Good notes are specific and actionable:
- "ASL interpreter provided for keynote only, not breakouts"
- "Accessible entrance on the north side of the building, facing Elm St."
- "CART captions displayed on screen at the front; no personal device option"
- "Accessible parking in Lot B, across the street"
Skip the vague:
- "This venue aims to be accessible" — says nothing
- "Please contact organizer for accessibility info" — defeats the purpose
- "Accessibility options may be available" — worse than leaving it blank
If you don't know the specifics, it's better to check the feature without a note than to write a vague placeholder. A blank notes field is honest. "We try our best" is not.
What not to check
Only check features the event actually provides. If you're not sure a feature is offered, don't assume. An unchecked feature is a neutral signal; a wrongly checked feature is misinformation that could lead someone to show up expecting something that isn't there.
If a feature is available "on request" or "with advance notice," check it but explain the condition in the notes. That's still useful — the attendee knows it exists and knows what to do.
How accessibility info reaches attendees
Checked features appear as labeled items on the event detail page, in both the iOS app and on the website. Notes appear directly below each feature label. People filtering by accessibility feature only see events where that feature is checked — accurate tagging is what makes the filter useful.