Accessibility at the Library
The Purchase College Library aims to create an equitable environment in which all our users thrive. We recognize that creating and maintaining that space means we must remain vigilant--engaged in constant education, advocacy and flexibility. To that end, we strive to:
- think strategically about our use of resources to enhance accessibility wherever possible
- advise faculty on accessible practices especially regarding the use of our content
- partner with the Office of Disability Resources for ongoing course needs
- train staff and faculty on the use of our collections with an eye toward accessibility and potential barriers
- continue to explore accessibility best practices, including scanning best practices as well as procurement of materials
Library Initiatives and Updates
Electronic/Digital Accessibility
Assistive Technology Lab in the DMZ Room 1015C
Assistive Technology on campus (Office of Disability Resources)
Physical Accessibility at the Library
- Elevators on all three floors (Lower Level, 1, and 2)
- Reference area desk height avg. 29”
- DMZ desk height avg. 29”
- The average desk height in classrooms are 29”
- All classrooms other than rooms 0012 and 0014 have wheelchair-accessible desks.
- Doors to 1004C and 1004D are 33” wide
Digital Accessibility Efforts
- ensure our website is compliant and friendly
- make accessible materials more discoverable
- support open educational resources (which tend to have fewer barriers)
- hold database vendors to promises in their Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates or VPATS.
- report issues when we find them
- advocate for vendors to have more reliable roadmaps and processes for making materials accessible
- review VPATS on a regular basis, especially before we reengage a vendor
- partner with the Westchester Library System to offer access to audiobooks and other alternative formats
Any reference librarian can support you in seeking materials in a more accessible format. Overall questions for Electronic & Information Technology Accessibility can be sent to Rebecca Oling, Director of Digital Accessibility.
Emergency Evacuation Procedures
The alarm systems in the Purchase College Library have strobe lights for the hearing impaired. Please see the Emergency Evacuation Procedures and specific Procedures for Individuals with Disabilities