Accessibility
We strive to support all patrons in accessing library materials and services. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Library at refdesk@lafayette.edu
Accessibility Resource Remediation Requests
Lafayette Libraries strive to collect, acquire and develop accessible collections, but we recognize that some resources may require interventions to meet specific accessibility needs. Please contact us for assistance meeting your specific needs by filling out this form, or emailing lat.group@lafayette.edu.
Retrieval of Library Materials
We provide physical assistance with retrieving items from the stacks. Walk in requests can be accommodated at either Skillman or Kirby circulation desks. Otherwise, please use the Library catalog to request your items in advance. After you’ve found the book or other item you want, click on the title, select “Place Request”, click on “Institutional login” to login to your account using your Lafayette credentials and then select your pickup location. You’ll receive an email notification when the items are ready for pickup. We can also deliver your items to your campus or home address.
Complete this form for home or campus delivery. For more information, call the Skillman circulation desk at 610-330-5151 or email circ@lafayette.edu.
Building Access
Skillman Library has an exterior access ramp, electronic doors, and an internal elevator to access different floors.
Kirby Hall has wheelchair access through a side entrance, outside of the Meyner Center. Take the elevator from the basement floor up to the second floor where the library is located. The elevator is right next to the Library entrance. Restrooms in both buildings are wheelchair accessible.
Lactation Room
The Library has a reservable lactation space on the second floor of Skillman Library, in Room 214. This space is bookable through EMS and is available as a resource to all Lafayette community members and visitors to campus. If an individual visiting campus does not have access to the EMS booking system, they can contact us to request a room reservation. This space includes a locking door, an armchair and side table, a sign indicating usage and electrical/USB outlets. The room is accessible during Skillman Library’s open hours and the key to the room can be checked out from the front Circulation desk to individuals with a reservation.
Course Materials & Textbooks
Students with disabilities who need to obtain textbooks or course readings in an accessible format can request an academic accommodation through the Academic Resource Hub. For more information email resourcehub@lafayette.edu (may take 7-14 days).
Course Reserves Books extended checkout
Standard checkout of Course Reserves material is 2 or 3 hours. If you require longer checkout periods, please contact circ@lafayette.edu.
Printing & Scanning
We can provide assistance with printing and scanning and have accessible scanners in each library. If you need assistance, please visit the circulation desk.
Accessible ebooks, journals, and databases
Many of the library’s ebooks, journal archives, and database platforms offer additional support or ‘accessibility modes’ on request. For assistance, contact us through this form.
Special instructions for ProQuest Ebook Central:
ProQuest Ebook Central provides two accessibility options that can be toggled on or off in a user’s profile: a Text Only mode and OpenDyslexic typeface. To activate either of these features, follow the instructions on ProQuest’s support page.
To request “accessibility mode” for ProQuest Ebook Central, please include your Ebook Central encrypted username in your request email. To find this from the Ebook Central platform, go to Settings, then Profile. Copy and paste the string of characters next to Email/Username.
Hathi Trust Material
HathiTrust is a vast collection of digitized public domain and in-copyright books from many libraries, including Lafayette College. If you have a print disability, you may be eligible for special access to copyrighted materials. According to the HathiTrust, a print disability is “a disability – such as a visual impairment, learning disability, physical disability, or other disability – that impedes a person’s ability to access print in the standard way.” Detailed instructions on how to identify books and make an Accessible Text Request can be found at HathiTrust Accessibility.