From 1 June – 14 June, we are celebrating HighVis 2024! This initiative from Share the Vision helps libraries highlight services and support for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
In this post, we will highlight how CityLibrary can support individuals to access and connect to services and formats that suit them best.
Accessible collections:
Our accessible collections for all include a variety of formats to suit different needs:
- E-books and online resources: Many of our books and journals are available in digital format. Most e-books include accessibility tools built into the reader. Find out more about enhancing your digital reading.
- Audiobooks: A collection of audiobooks featuring fiction, non-fiction and wellbeing titles is available though the Libby app. We also have a variety of e-books on the same platform for which the display can be adjusted. See Libby help with accessibility.
- Newspapers: Access daily or archive newspapers and magazines. PressReader has a wide range of global newspapers and magazines. It has a read aloud tool built in and a simplified article view option. See PressReader accessibility.
Visit our HiVis display at Northampton Square Library Level 5. This is a small selection of titles on the topic of visual impairment across a range of disciplines, and also books by authors who are blind or visually impaired. Digital versions of many of the books can be found in our online collections.
Liberating CityLibrary
Liberating CityLibrary is a scheme designed to promote and amplify underrepresented voices. Based on your suggestions we hope to increase the breadth of books in the library by authors from the Global Majority, LGBTQI+ people, and titles recognising overlapping identities and experiences such as gender, class, sexuality and disability. Find a list of Liberating CityLibrary titles which have been requested through the scheme so far.
RNIB Bookshare
Did you know that CityLibrary can provide students who have qualifying print impairments with access to a Bookshare account through the RNIB? On RNIB Bookshare you can search for books independently and read in a range of formats that suit your preferences. Alongside PDFs and Word documents, some books are available as EPUBs and in Braille Ready Format (BRF). BRF files can be sent to a braille device or embosser. Find out more about alternative formats.
Technology and equipment
Finding the right format, e-reader, device, and a comfortable set-up are all crucial aspects of the reading experience. Our libraries offer a range of software and equipment, including screen readers, text-to-speech software, portable magnifier, natural daylight lamps, and book holders. Check what is available at each library on our Assistive Software and Equipment guides.
Making resources and spaces accessible
At CityLibrary, we collaborate with colleagues across the University to create an inclusive environment for work and study. If you want to learn more about making spaces and online information accessible, we have some excellent resources. A great starting point is this reading list curated by our Digital Accessibility experts in the Learning Enhancement Development team: Accessibility and inclusive design reading list.
If you have any suggestions or feedback, please do get in touch, either through the comments or via one of our contact channels.