On June 28, 2025, new European regulations will require certain companies to produce accessible eBooks. These rules support the European Accessibility Act, which ensures that people with disabilities can access and use digital content.

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), developed by the W3C, set the standard for accessible EPUB files. The W3C also defines technical standards for web and digital publishing. To check if an EPUB meets these standards, publishers can use ACE by DAISY, a free open source tool that analyzes accessibility compliance.

Deadlines and Regulatory Requirements

  • June 28, 2025 - The European Accessibility Act goes into effect.
  • In some countries, such as Italy, the law applies only to companies that exceed specific thresholds for revenue and number of employees.
  • To confirm compliance, publishers can use tools like ACE by DAISY, which analyzes EPUB structure and content based on WCAG standards.

Accessibility Metadata - Why It Matters

Even though not all eBooks are legally required to meet accessibility standards, many distribution platforms—such as StreetLib—and online bookstores already prioritize accessible titles. These platforms highlight accessible eBooks, making them easier to discover for readers with disabilities.

When an EPUB meets accessibility criteria, it includes specific metadata that certifies its compliance. Most distributors and retailers use standard coding developed by EDItEUR.org, the international organization that manages e-commerce standards for books, eBooks, audiobooks, and series.

How We Help You Make Your Catalog Accessible

At StreetLib, we specialize in producing and distributing accessible eBooks. Here’s how we support your accessibility journey:

  • Automatic Accessibility Validation - We validate every EPUB distributed through StreetLib using ACE by Daisy to ensure it meets accessibility standards.
  • Metadata Generation and Export - We create standardized accessibility metadata (following EDItEUR.org guidelines) and share it across our entire distribution network.
  • Accessibility by Design - We produce eBooks that meet accessibility requirements from the start.
  • Remediation Services - We can update existing EPUBs to meet current accessibility standards.

Production Tools - StreetLib Write

StreetLib Write is our proprietary tool designed for publishers, authors, and businesses who want to create accessible eBooks or convert existing files into accessible EPUBs.

Key Features:

  • User-Friendly Editor - Create and edit content with a clean WYSIWYG interface.
  • Built-In Accessibility Checker - Run compliance checks with the integrated ACE by DAISY validator before downloading your file.
  • AI-Generated Image Descriptions - Automatically create alt text for images to enhance accessibility.
  • Flexible File Upload - Import content in .doc, .docx, .odt, or .epub formats.

Write is listed among the remediation software by Abelab (LIi + EDRLab)

https://writeapp.io/home

Work with a Reliable Partner

At StreetLib, we bring hands-on experience in digital distribution and accessibility. We help publishers navigate accessibility requirements and deliver practical, tailored solutions that comply with European standards.

Get in touch for expert support or a customized quote for accessible EPUB production and remediation.


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