Confession: I only checked out one book from my college library while living on campus.
For new readers, the reason I only borrowed a single book in four years is because I have a print disability, which makes it impossible to read physical copies of books, magazines, newspapers, etc. There are so many resources offered by college libraries that go beyond what is on the shelves and even the digital library resources that I would devour, including equipment rentals, computer labs, research help, and so much more. Here are several awesome on-campus library resources that can be accessed in-person, with some options for remote access.
Technology and equipment rental
Many college libraries offer technology and equipment rental services for students working on projects or that need to test software on different operating systems. I frequently checked out MacBooks for one of my design classes, as well as a portable FM system for sound amplification.
Other items that can be rented from the college library can include:
- Cameras
- Sound equipment
- Microphones and headsets
- Video recording tools
- Mini projectors
- DVD players
- Peripheral equipment- keyboards, mice, webcams, etc
Related links
- Low Vision Accessibility Settings For MacBooks
- Computer Mice and Mouse Alternatives For Low Vision
- Mainstream Technology and Low Vision: Keyboards
- How To Use Dictation As Assistive Technology With Mainstream Devices
Access technology/Assistive technology lab
For students with print disabilities or that have trouble reading standard print, assistive technology labs (sometimes called access technology labs) provide several options for information access. Some assistive technology labs are in a private space and require students to swipe an ID card, while other areas are more open so anyone can use the technology.
Examples of items in an assistive technology lab include:
- Screen reader software, i.e JAWS
- Computers with alternative keyboard options
- Screen magnification software, i.e ZoomText
- Scanners
- Video magnifier/desktop CCTV
- Large monitors for screen mirroring
Related links
- A to Z of Assistive Technology For Low Vision
- What To Know About College Assistive Technology Specialists
Recording studio for videos
For students that need to record a short video, I recommend visiting my college library’s one button video recording studio, which allows students to insert a USB flash drive, press a button to start recording, and then press the button again to stop and save the recording to the flash drive. There’s no screens to look at, making this an awesome resource for blind students and nonvisual access.
Booking a study space
Need to work on a group project? For a few of my class group projects, group members booked a study space at the library that featured multiple outlets for computers, a large screen for screen sharing/projecting content, and a dry-erase board for making notes. My favorite amenity for group study spaces is the large screen for projecting content, as it made it a lot easier for group members to collaborate instead of huddling around someone’s computer.
Related links
- How I Use Microsoft Whiteboard With Low Vision
- Tips For Screensharing With Low Vision
- How To Make Things On The Board Easier To See
Quiet testing space for quizzes and exams
Many college libraries have a testing center where students can take quizzes, exams, and work on other assignments for virtual/hybrid classes in a quiet space. I didn’t use this testing center personally because I would go to the Disability Services testing center for proctored exams, but this is an awesome resource for students living in triple-occupancy rooms or in noisy environments.
Related links
- What To Bring To The Disability Services Testing Center
- Testing Accommodations For Low Vision Students
- Tips For Taking Online Classes As An On-Campus Student
Makerspace for creative projects
My college library and the college makerspace are now separate buildings, though I learned a lot about how to use the makerspace from events hosted by the library. Makerspaces can include items such as 3D printers, sewing machines, art materials, woodshop areas, crafting spaces, and so much more.
Some examples of creative projects I made in my college library’s makerspace include:
- 3D printing two pairs of earrings
- Shortening the sleeves of a dress with help from a friend
- Creating a design mockup for a necklace
- Making a zine with friends
Related links
Meeting with a librarian
I had to write a paper for one of my classes about the rise of spam phone calls and had trouble finding research sources in the academic database. Meeting with a research librarian helped me to find better sources and relevant information for my paper, and I also felt more confident about turning in my final project. It’s worth noting that librarian meetings can be done in-person or virtual/remote depending on student preference.
Related links
- The Best Study Tips For Visually Impaired Students
- How I Read Research Sources With Assistive Technology
- How I Write Research Papers On Accessibility Topics
- How I Create Citations For Research Papers
Getting tech support or troubleshooting applications
When I was having an issue with the statistics software for one of my classes, I was able to meet with a librarian who helped me solve the issue and also teach me a few keyboard shortcuts. Many college libraries offer tech support options for using research software or other university tools, and may also be able to help with basic troubleshooting for computers as well.
More college library resources for on-campus students
- In addition to requesting individual help, students can also request custom group trainings for topics related to libraries and research
- College students often qualify to receive a library card from their local public library- read more about getting library cards in How To Request Multiple Library Cards For Digital Content
- Are you a student with a print disability looking for research help? Read How I Find Research Sources In Accessible Formats
- Want to learn more about virtual college library resources? Check out Online College Library Resources For Digital Access
Published July 3, 2017. Updated December 2023