Accessibility and the Library
We aim to make our resources and services accessible to all Library users.
Please do not hesitate to contact Library staff should you need assistance in using the Library or wish to discuss individual requirements. We welcome your feedback and suggestions to improve our services.
The following information relates, in its specifics, to the Hartley Library - however, the Library has services and facilities for people with disabilities at all sites. There are contact details for staff at each Library site at the end of the page.
Access
Parking
There is designated parking outside the Administration building (Building 37) and outside the Careers building (Building 3)
The Hartley Library
There is a ramp and automatic doors to the entrance of the library. You will be entering on Level 2, and at the far end of the entrance hall in the corridor on the left you will find the lift that serves all 5 levels. There is a wheelchair lift that will provide access on level 4 to English and American literature. Please refer to the Fire and Emergency Procedures if you need to access levels 3, 4 & 5.
Toilets
Wheelchair accessible toilets are located on Level 2 Wolfson Corridor, to the left of Latte’s Café, and on Level 4 to the right from the lift.
Fire and emergency procedures
In the event of a fire, you will hear a loud continuous alarm and should leave the building immediately via the nearest fire exit.
If you are on level 1 or 2 you may use the fire exits to leave the building safely.
If you have difficulty in using the stairs it would be wise not to use Levels 3, 4 or 5 after 5pm Monday – Friday or at weekends. (These times are currently under review).
First aid
The library has trained First Aiders and their names and extension numbers are displayed in each room. Accidents should be reported to the Service Assistant at the Reception Desk on Level 2, who may call a first aider if appropriate. All library staff may be called upon to assist in the event of accidents and illness.
Services and resources
Retrieval of material
Any member of staff can help you retrieve material eg: from top shelves. Please contact Reception staff if you require ongoing assistance when you use the Library.
Induction and tours
Other sites have a named point of contact who will discuss support which can be offered to enable you to make best use of the Library. Please refer to the Contacts Section, and do not hesitate to seek assistance should you require it. Assistance is available within service hours, and an individual tour may be arranged.
Photocopying
Staff will make copies for those who find it difficult to use the printer/copiers. Those who receive a Disabled Students Allowance will be able to print a report to help them claim reimbursement for expenditure on printing and copying.
Magnifier
There is a CCTV on Level 1, and electronic magnifiers on Level 3 and in the Assistive Technology Service (ATS) on Level 2. All this equipment will enlarge text and/or change the colour of font and background, to assist with reading print resources. ATS workstations also carry software to modify electronic text, by enlargement, or by changing the colours of fonts and or backgrounds, or to provide electronic colour overlays for monitors. Please ask for assistance in the ATS, Room 2047.
Furniture
All levels have a mix of seating, and there are raised desks placed throughout the library.
Hearing induction loops
Induction loops are fitted to the Reception Desk and Loans desk Level 2, and to Levels 1 & 3 Enquiry Desks. There is also one available for use in the ATS.
The Assistive Technology Service (ATS)
The ATS provides IT facilities to help students with dyslexia or disabilities, or those who are particularly vulnerable to stress due to physical or mental health difficulties.
It is located on Level 2 Wolfson Corridor, and is accessible via an automatic door. Membership is open to all students who are registered at the Dyslexia Services (www.soton.ac.uk/edusupport/ldc), or with the Enabling Services (www.soton.ac.uk/edusupport/disability) and application forms are available at these places and the Hartley Library, and via the ATS website.
The ATS aim to provide a stress-free environment in which to work, and there are facilities for hearing and visually impaired users, plus adjustable height tables and ergonomic chairs.
The Service is staffed by specialists who are available every day to provide help in supporting students’ study using assistive technology. Please call in to discuss how you might benefit from membership.
Contact information
| Name | Address | Telephone (external) | (internal) | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Assistive Technology Officers |
Andrew Dykes |
ATS Hartley Library Level 2 |
023 8059 7620 |
27620 |
|
Dyslexia Services |
Janet Skinner – Co-ordinator |
45 University Road, Highfield, SO17 1BJ |
023 8059 2459 |
22759 |
|
Enabling Services |
Sara Henry |
39 University Road, Highfield, SO17 1BJ |
023 8059 9316 |
29316 |
The Library's disability contacts
| Site | Name | Telephone (external) | (internal) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avenue Library | Nick Gates | ng4@soton.ac.uk | 023 8059 5432 | 25432 |
| Hartley Library | Jon Richards | jr11@soton.ac.uk | 023 8059 5482 | 25482 |
| Health Services Library | Bernie Boakes | bbb@soton.ac.uk | 023 8059 6541 | 71-6541 |
| National Oceanographic Library | Peter Martin | pjm1@noc.soton.ac.uk | 023 8059 6113 | 26113 |
| Winchester School of Art | Kim Potter | krp@soton.ac.uk | 023 8059 7013 | 27013 |