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Creating Accessible LibGuides

Colour and Contrast

Colour combinations between text and background are important elements in the accessibility of your LibGuide. Colour is particularly important when thinking of users with low vision or visual, cognitive, learning, or neurological disabilities. Remember that colour is not recognized by a screen reader.

  • Use high-contrast colour combinations for text and background - a safe choice is black text on white background, like you see here
  • Avoid using red/green or blue/yellow combinations as they can be problematic for users who are colour blind
  • Avoid using colour to convey meaning, an action, or a response; instead, use a symbol, pattern, or some other means to signify importance.
  • Use bold font instead of colour for emphasis, avoid underlining and italics for emphasis (underlining is often associated with links)

Learn more about the effective use of colour and contrast in web content.