Library Services for Persons with Disabilities
Introduction
The UWF Libraries offer services and specialized equipment for individuals with physical or visual impairments. Assistance is available at any of the public service units: Circulation, Reference, Serials, Special Collections, the Curriculum Library, and the Emerald Coast Campus Library.
| Back to Top |
Parking
Parking for persons with a disability is located behind and on the Northeast side of the main library with ramps that lead to the entrance. Parking for persons with a disability is provided in close proximity to ramps and doors leading to library facilities at the Curriculum Library (Building 86) and the Emerald Coast Campus Library (Building 8).
| Back to Top |
Public Elevators
Elevators, equipped with Braille floor indicators, are available at both the main library and the Emerald Campus Library. Red courtesy phones are located near the elevators in the main library. Individuals may call the Circulation Desk (x2414) for assistance if the elevators are not working.
| Back to Top |
Specialized Equipment
Located on the first floor of the main library, the Special Needs Room includes equipment for persons with a disability. Individuals may ask for assistance at the Circulation Desk (850-474-2414).
Equipment available includes a Spectrum "Optelec," a personal computer, and a Braille printer. The Spectrum "Optelec" enlarges text and changes the color and contrast of letters from printed pages. Installed on the personal computer is JAWS, a program that reads screens aloud; Zoom Text, which enlarges text; and Duxbury, which translates typed words into Braille. The Braille printer is attached to the personal computer.
| Back to Top |
TDD Services
TDD (850-474-2190) is available for hearing-impaired.
| Back to Top |
Reference Services
Reference staff are available for assistance with using library resources, including the online catalog and online databases, and will provide directional assistance for locating library materials. Individuals may also schedule personalized research consultations to develop an effective search strategy or to identify appropriate reference resources. Contact the Information/Reference Desk (850-474-2424) to schedule an appointment or contact the appropriate subject specialists directly. To help ensure staff availability, please provide advance notice for individualized consultations whenever possible.
| Back to Top |
Specialized Collections
The library contains a collection of audio and video materials that may be useful for individuals with disabilities. These resources are listed in the online catalog and may be retrieved at the Circulation Desk.
| Back to Top |
Assistance with Retrieving Materials
Library staff are available to assist with retrieving materials. Individuals may ask for assistance at a public service desk. Individuals may request specialized circulation services from the Circulation Department (850-474-2414) if unique circumstances prevent them from personally checking out materials.
| Back to Top |
Assistance with Copiers
Library staff are available to assist with making copies, regardless of their format. Individuals may ask for assistance at a public service desk. |
 |
| Back to Top |
Referrals
Library staff will assist in identifying other campus services or other libraries that may provide additional services to assist individuals. Library staff are open to any suggestions for improving the accessibility of its buildings or its materials to individuals with a disability.
| Back to Top |
Contacting Us
Call the Circulation Department Staff at (850-474-2414) or email us.