Currently, Perpustakaan Jakarta dan Pusat Dokumen Sastra H.B. Jassin has become one of the most well-known libraries in Jakarta. Many visitors come to enjoy the facilities and services provided by the library, including those with disabilities. With accessible collections and services available, the library welcomes visitors with various types of disabilities who come to enjoy the inclusive facilities it provides.

Its commitment to inclusivity has also attracted researchers from various institutions who are interested in evaluating how accessible the public space is for individuals with disabilities. One of the research projects conducted was the Grant-funded research titled “Studi Praktik Pendekatan Inklusif pada Desain Arsitektur Interior: Mewujudkan Ruang Publik yang Aksesibel bagi Penyandang Disabilitas Tidak Terlihat” on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at the Perpustakaan Jakarta dan Pusat Dokumen Sastra H.B. Jassin building in the Taman Ismail Marzuki area. This project involved a team from Mercu Buana University, particularly from the Architecture and Interior Design majors in collaboration with the Jakarta branch of Himpunan Desainer Interior Indonesia (HDII) and the National Disability Commission (Komisi Nasional Disabilitas/KND), Republic of Indonesia. The study aimed to observe and collect data regarding the implementation of inclusive design in the building of Perpustakaan Jakarta dan Pusat Dokumen Sastra H.B. Jassin as a public space. Some types of invisible disabilities were considered as variables in the study, including  hearing disability (Deaf), Intellectual disability (Down Syndrome), mental disability (psychosocial and development) and dwarfism (dwarf body). Based on the variables determined by the researchers, it indicates that disabilities may not always be obvious. Understanding invisible disabilities requires a shift in perspective towards disability. It is not defined only through the presence of assistive devices or physical appearance, but rather goes beyond what can be seen.

The research activity included  initial discussion on the implementation of inclusive design in public spaces for people with invisible disabilities, an observation on the accessibility of infrastructures and  facilities for people with invisible disabilities along with the reasonable accommodations provided, as well as documentation process for research purposes. Both physical and non-physical infrastructures were assessed, and the scoring was based on whether the building meets the criteria of Universal Design as mentioned in Ministry Regulation (Permen) of Public Works and Housing (Pekerjaan Umum dan Perumahan Rakyat/PUPR) No. 14 2017 about requirements for building convenience, one of which is the application of universal design principles.

What Makes a Public Space Inclusive: Accessibility and Accommodation for Invisible Disabilities

As mentioned earlier, identifying invisible disabilities needs a shift in how we perceive disability. Unlike visible disabilities such as blindness, for example, these conditions cannot be  acknowledged through the use of assistive devices or physical appearance only. Invisible disabilities include conditions that affect sensory perception, mental health, cognition development, or specific physical conditions that are not immediately noticeable but can significantly impact daily functioning.

Individuals with invisible disabilities often face challenges in navigating public spaces as the environment is not aware of their needs due to non-visible nature of their conditions. One of the most common challenges is the lack of basic adjustments to facilities and services that allows them to access public spaces comfortably. This leads to a crucial question: what kinds of accessibility features and reasonable accommodations are needed to support individuals with invisible disabilities in public spaces?

To ensure inclusivity, public spaces must provide both physical and non-physical accommodations that address the diverse needs of individuals with invisible disabilities. Therefore, it is necessary to apply Universal Design principles in creating accessible features for all, including those with invisible disabilities. However, it is important to note that Universal Design approach is not specifically about disability issues. It also enhances the experience for everyone by promoting adaptability, efficiency, flexibility, and safety. The concept is mainly aimed to create products, buildings, environments, and services that are accessible for everyone, regardless of ability, age, or other factors.

Accessibility Features and Reasonable Accommodations for Individuals with Invisible Disabilities in Public Spaces

Compiled from several sources, individuals with invisible disabilities are just as entitled to accessibility features and reasonable accommodations in public spaces as those with visible disabilities. To determine whether a public space is inclusively designed for individuals with invisible disabilities, several key areas should be considered. These include physical accessibility, sensory environment, information and communication, social and cultural inclusivity, safety and security, and community engagement. 

A. Physical Accessibility

It refers to the physical infrastructures of public spaces, such as smooth and obstacle-free pathways, ramps, cclear signage, accessible entrances, accessible restrooms with appropriate features for individuals with either visible or invisible disabilities,  and parking areas that are compatible with the guidelines of the inclusive design for people with visible and invisible disabilities (read: Permen PUPR No. 14 2017). These demonstrate that ease of access is for all, not only to those with visible mobility barriers, but also for anyone who may benefit from ease of movement.

B.     Sensory Environment

This aspect focuses on how the space supports sensory sensitivities. Individuals with invisible disabilities, such as autism or anxiety disorders may be affected by bright lights, loud sounds, strong smells, or visual messes. A supportive sensory environment has features like calm lighting, low-noise areas, spaces free from overpowering smells, and simple visual design with contrasting colors to help  users identify particular areas and information. These adjustments help people feel safe and comfortable while exploring public spaces.

C.    Information and Communication

Inclusive public spaces should provide easy-to-understand information for everyone who needs it, including using simple language, clear signage, visual symbols, audio announcements, and alternative formats such as large print. Digital tools such as apps or QR codes with audio guidance can also support those with cognitive or sensory disabilities. Staff should be trained to communicate with and help people who may have difficulty processing information or expressing themselves.

D. Social and Cultural Inclusivity

Realizing inclusive public spaces means designing spaces where everyone can participate in activities together, receiving  equal treatment regardless of their ability and without feeling excluded. Inclusive facilities should support diverse needs and encourage respectful interactions among visitors. For instance, in public libraries, providing flexible seating, quiet corners, and options to take part in activities held by the libraries in different ways, (e.g. online or in smaller groups) helps individuals with mental health conditions or anxiety fully and meaningfully participate.

E.     Safety and Security

For those with invisible disabilities, feeling physically and emotionally safe is highly essential. Emergency systems should include visual alarms and clear evacuation routes. Spaces should avoid sudden sensory triggers, such as flashing lights or loud sirens, without warning. Staff should be trained to respond calmly and respectfully to a variety

of behaviors or needs that may arise during emergencies.

F.     Community Engagement

Stakeholders who are responsible for the design of the public services operation should involve individuals with invisible disabilities in planning, decision-making, and evaluation to create inclusive features for everyone. It can be done through insightful activities, such as sharing sessions, forum group discussions, or short-term workshops to improve the staff capacity in providing services. Their lived experiences can reveal important insights that may not be obvious to designers or managers. These help improve facilities and services of the public spaces and transform them into inclusive public spaces that are accessible for all. These approaches ensure the space evolves to truly reflect the needs of its diverse users.

Overall, this exploration serves as a reminder that creating inclusive public spaces that are accessible truly for everyone is a continuous process. It requires attention, reflection, and commitment from the stakeholders related. Perpustakaan Jakarta dan Pusat Dokumen Sastra H.B. Jassin holds the potential to not only provide access to library services but also to grow as a model of inclusion for others. It is important to highlight that those with either visible or invisible disabilities have the same rights to access public facilities with dignity, comfort, and equality.

References

British Medical Association. (2020). Access for all: Invisible disabilities remain overlooked. BMA. https://www.bma.org.uk/news-and-opinion/access-for-all-invisible-disabilities-remain-overlooked

Concept Care. (2024). Invisible disabilities. https://www.conceptcare.com.au/invisible-disabilities/

Jensen, M. (2024). A guide to invisible disabilities. AudioEye. https://www.audioeye.com/post/guide-to-invisible-disabilities/

Kelly, R., & Mutebi, N. (2019). Invisible disabilities (POSTnote No. 589). Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology. https://post.parliament.uk/research-briefings/post-pn-0689/

Lingkar Sosial Indonesia. (2022). Prinsip desain universal: Bangunan gedung dan lingkungan yang ramah disabilitas. Lingkar Sosial. https://lingkarsosial.org/prinsip-desain-universal-bangunan-gedung-dan-lingkungan-yang-ramah-disabilitas/

Moen, R. D. (n.d.). Universal design: The key for inclusion and accessibility. Made for Movement. https://www.madeformovement.com/en-gb/blog/universal-design-the-key-for-inclusion-and-accessibility

Perkins School for the Blind. (n.d.). Inclusion, accessibility, and the importance of acknowledging invisible disabilities. Perkins.org. https://www.perkins.org/resource/inclusion-accessibility-and-the-importance-of-acknowledging-invisible-disabilities/

Republik Indonesia. (2017). Permen PUPR No. 14 Ta. 2017: Persyaratan Kemudahan Bangunan Gedung. Peraturan BPK. https://peraturan.bpk.go.id/Details/104477/permen-pupr-no-14prtm2017-tahun-2017