Rensselaer Libraries

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Users with Disabilities

Posted: May 5, 2008

The Rensselaer Libraries are committed to providing access to their materials and services for disabled users that are equivalent to those available to other users and that are in compliance with federal and state regulations.


Library Facilities

Folsom Library is accessible by several pedestrian ramps. Reserved parking is located on both its south (near the Voorhees Computing Center) and west sides. (Parking permits are required). An elevator in the center of the building serves all floors.

The Architecture Library, located on the 3rd floor of the Greene Building, is also accessible by elevator. Use the east entrance via the pedestrian ramp located the south side of the building. Reserved parking for the Greene Building, is located on the west side facing Lally Hall (Information Technology).

Folsom Library also provides a Kurzweil Reading Machine and a Spectrum SVGA Optelec Print Magnifier. Most meeting and study rooms are also accessible to disabled users; and raised study tables are located on all floors.

Staff Guidelines for Assisting Disabled Users

  • Staff will assist visually-impaired users in using on-line resources.
  • Staff will retrieve books, journals, and other materials from collections for users who cannot retrieve such materials.
  • Staff will assist users who have difficulty writing by filling out forms.
  • Staff will modify usage rules and loan periods for library materials, when necessary.
  • Staff will photocopy a limited number of pages or arrange to have photocopying or scanning done at a later time for users who have difficulty operating equipment.
  • Staff will assist in setting up study materials for users with limited mobility.
  • Staff will check stacks for materials when a telephone request is received from a disabled patron who has difficulty traveling to the library.

Disabled users requiring more extensive assistance are requested to contact the libraries in advance by calling:

  • Folsom Library, Circulation Desk 276 - 8310
  • Architecture Library, Greene Bldg. 276 - 6465
Created by Irving Stephens.

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