Why is web accessibility important?
Website and digital accessibility are essential for government and public websites because it ensures that everyone—regardless of ability—can access services, information, and opportunities.
Accessibility is about people
The Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) has resources to help you understand the people aspects of web accessibility.
Federal & State guidelines
New guidelines go into effect April 24, 2026 to ensure that all digital communication meets certain accessibility standards as defined by:
- Virginia’s Digital Accessibility Act (HB2541)
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Title II
- Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act
- Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)
It’s always best to prepare your document for accessibility in the source file (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and then finish in Adobe Acrobat.
Design with Purpose
Digital accessibility starts with design. Learn the basics in these short videos.
Check for Accessibility
Improve your workflow by automating accessibility checking of your content.
Web Accessibility in Mind or WebAIM is a robust hub of
digital accessibility resources
Tool Tips
Keyboard Shortcut – Open Microsoft Windows Accessibility Settings by holding down the 
(Windows icon) + the letter U
Content Creation
Make your content accessible to everyone for ALL your digital platforms
Create Accessible Digital Products
Accessible Tools for Microsoft Products
Accessibility Guides
Created by VCU’s Partnership for People with Disabilities
- How to write about People with Disabilities (University of Kansas)
- Disability Language Style Guide (Arizona State University)
- Captions, transcripts and audio descriptions (WebAIM)
- Accessible social media (Level Access)
Webinars
- Countdown to ADA Title II Compliance (3Play Media)
VITA Accessibility Webinars
Other Tools to Help with Creating Accessible Content
Screen Reader Tools
Screen readers enable blind or visually impaired users to navigate digital content by converting on-screen information into speech or braille output.
Color Contrast Tools
Using the right color contrast ensures digital content is readable and usable for people with low vision, color blindness, or age-related visual impairments.