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The Libraries’ goal is to provide access for all of our users, including those with permanent or temporary disabilities.

For specific requests, contact us by email at lib-accommodations@nyu.edu.

Digital Accessibility

Alternative Formats and Accessible PDFs

Contact lib-accommodations@nyu.edu to request access to alternative formats and/or accessible PDFs of library resources. We work closely with the Moses Center for Student Accessibility to procure accessible alternatives.

HathiTrust Accessible Text Request Service

HathiTrust Accessible Text Request Service. If you are blind or have a print disability, you can request a copy of any copyrighted book in the HathiTrust collection by emailing lib-accomodations@nyu.edu with detailed information about the material(s) you need.

Internet Archive (Archive.org) Books for People with Print Disabilities

Internet Archive (Archive.org) Books for People with Print Disabilities. If you are blind, have a print disability, or have another disability that interferes with reading printed text, you can request access to the Internet Archive’s collection of accessible books which gives you access to their print-disabled collection and lets you skip waitlists for their ebook collections. Books can be borrowed for up to 14 days and then renewed.

For access, first register for an Archive.org account. Then email lib-accomodations@nyu.edu from your NYU email with information about your accessibility needs, and include the email address you used to register for the Archive.org account. Upon approval, you will be able to access the database.

Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library (NYPL)

The Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library (NYPL) provides talking books and magazines, and braille for people who are blind, visually impaired, or are otherwise physically unable to read standard print. The library serves residents who live in New York City and Long Island. To borrow Talking Books, talking book players, and/or Braille Books, you must register with the library by meeting eligibility requirements, and submitting an application with a signature of certification.

NYU Digital Accessibility Resources

University Wide Accessibility Tools

  • Grackle is an add-on that runs in Google Docs, Slides, and Sheets. When opened, it scans the current document for accessibility issues.
  • Read&Write is an application for your computer, browser, and tablet that helps make reading, writing, and comprehending text easier. (Note: Directs to NYUHome. NYU login required.)
  • Document Conversion Using SensusAccess is a self-service solution that automates the conversion of documents into a range of alternative formats. (Note: Directs to NYUHome. NYU login required.)
  • NYU Stream provides an option for ordering captions and transcripts to uploaded media.

Adaptive Technology

Adaptive Computing Labs

For those who need adaptive technologies, NYU Libraries has individual labs (two in Bobst Library) which offer a variety of specialized hardware and software.

Regular, on-going users of the Adaptive Computing labs should be registered with the University’s Moses Center for Student Accessibility.

Lab Locations

The following specialized hardware and software are available in the Adaptive Computing Labs:

  • Kurzweil 1000: reads books and other print materials aloud
  • CCTV: closed circuit enlargement of print materials
  • JAWS: allows users to listen to the contents of the computer’s screen
  • ZoomText: magnification and screen reading
  • Dragon Naturally Speaking: allows users to dictate, rather than type

The Adaptive Computing Rooms Usage Policy and Guidelines Google Doc has more details about lab access. Each lab has swipe access for authenticated users, and is equipped with an auto-opening door and adjustable height desks.

Other software of interest:

Sensory Spaces

Bobst Location: First floor south and 9th Floor, rooms 952 and 955

These spaces are designed with features to provide students that have sensory sensitivities with an academic environment that will allow them to center their sensory needs. This includes sensory seeking and sensory avoidance features such as adjustable individual lighting, sound dampening tiles, adjustable privacy panels, and sensory manipulatives like noise canceling headphones and fidget devices. Regular, on-going users should be registered with the University’s Moses Center for Student Accessibility.

Retrieving Books and Other Materials

Bobst, Dibner, and Brause Libraries provide a locker delivery option for circulating book materials. If you need an accessible height locker (below four feet), you can tell the Libraries by registering in the Luxer One app. Information about the app is included in the email confirmation you receive from our delivery services team.

If you need assistance retrieving books and materials from our libraries contact lib-accommodations@nyu.edu in advance of your library visit.

Physical Accessibility

Bobst Library

There are no steps leading to the building’s entrance. For access to the Lower Levels (LL1 and LL2) and Floors 2 through 10 use the two elevators on the east side of the building.

The Mezzanine is not accessible via public elevators, but service elevator access can be requested with Public Safety or by contacting lib-accommodations@nyu.edu. If you are meeting with a librarian or other Library staff member whose office is on the Mezzanine, please contact them directly to arrange access.

For access to Floors 11 and 12, use the elevator on the far west side.

Bobst Library Emergency Info

Areas of refuge at Bobst Library are inside the Fire Exit stairwells. If you are able to go to the Fire Exit located at each corner of the Bobst building, but are unable to take the stairs, wait inside the Fire Exit stairwell. FDNY will assist with evacuation. Call 911 then Campus Safety (212) 998-2222 to notify them of your location, or tell a colleague who is leaving the building to call 911 then Campus Safety if you are unable to make a call.

For more information, visit the Bobst Library Emergency Information sheet (Google Doc).

Dibner Library

There are no steps leading to the building’s entrance. The main entrance to the library is located on the 3rd floor and 4th floor access is available via elevator.

Dibner Library Emergency Info

Areas of refuge in Dibner Library are on each floor at the elevator lobby and adjacent corridor. If you are unable to take the stairs, wait in this location. FDNY will assist with evacuation. Call 911 then Campus Safety (212) 998-2222 to notify them of your location, or tell a colleague who is leaving the building to call 911 and Campus Safety if you are unable to make a call.

Wheelchair-Accessible (ADA Compliant) Restrooms

Bobst Library

Wheelchair accessible restrooms are located on Lower Levels 1 and 2 (LL1, LL2) and on the 5th floor of Bobst.

Dibner Library

Wheelchair accessible restrooms are available on the ground floor of the Dibner building.

FAQs

See more FAQs