Model of Collaborative Network of Libraries and Information Service Institutions for People with a Visual Impairment in Thailand

This mixed-methods research aimed to develop a collaborative network model for libraries and information service institutions serving the visually impaired in Thailand. The model was informed by a survey examining the current conditions and challenges faced by these institutions, a review of relevant literature, and an evaluation of the draft model through focus group with 12 administrators and staff members from libraries and institutions for the visually impaired person. The model's appropriateness was assessed by 2 stakeholders of information service for the blinds. The findings revealed that the network model is a composite network using a bottom-up approach. Key activities driving the network's functionality include fostering cooperation among agencies with similar missions, establishing communication channels, and organizing joint activities such as forming a central working group, setting collaborative policies, building shared databases, conducting inter-agency training, and engaging external stakeholders.