Library Users with Disabilities

Accomodation Workstation

The library has a workstation complete with a desktop that can be raised and lowered, a new PC computer (Widows XP operating system) with large flat-panel monitor, and Genie Pro text enlarger. Specialized software including ZoomText and Victor Reader is provided by the Department of Special Services.

ADA Compliance Policy

The Kirk Library will provide equal access and treatment to all Centralia College students and employees. In addition, patrons from the general public will be served to the extent that time and resources allow. To this end, the Kirk Library staff will provide services and/or accommodations aimed at equalizing access to library resources.

Examples of services that may be provided include:

• retrieval of materials from the stacks
• physical assistance with searching the library's online resources and assistance with using microform reader printer
• reference or other assistance by appointment
• photocopying assistance for on-site copying
• modified reserve loan periods

Coordination of Services with Other Campus Departments

• The library will work with the Department of Special Services to ensure that the needs of students with disabilities are being met.
• The library will work with the Human Resources Department to accommodate the special circumstances of college employees.
• The Associate Dean of Library Services will act as library liaison with these departments for issues related to ADA compliance.
• Library users with disabilities who are not affiliated with the college will receive assistance within the parameters of other library and campus policies. First priority for service will always be given to college students and employees.

Description of Services

• Provision of services is on a case-by-case basis, based on the individual's specific needs. Services will be provided to the highest degree that staffing and funding allow.
• The library, together with the Department of Special Services, will maintain an adaptive technology workstation. Priority use of this workstation will be given to students registered with the Department of Special Services.
• Library patrons will first be asked to access library information resources using the adaptive technology workstation. The library staff members will read, write, or print out a reasonable number of entries from the online catalog, periodical indexes in print or electronic format, Web based resources or other information sources and/or retrieve items from the shelves if a patron requires further accommodation (e.g., disability does not permit use of keyboard or is wheelchair bound).
• When service desks are busy and extended individual attention is needed, the library reserves the right to request that the patron make an appointment for a private research consultation.
• Students with disabilities may request extended loan periods for reserve items. These will be set in consultation with the course instructor.
• Library staff members will photocopy a reasonable number of items for persons unable to do so by themselves. Library patrons may be asked to leave the selections for later copying when there is no time for extended individual attention. The patron is responsible for the cost of the copies.
• The library offers up to 20 free copies of such non-circulating items as reference books and periodicals only held in paper format to all patrons. Library patrons may be asked to leave the selections to be picked up at a later time when staffing does not permit immediate fulfillment of the request.
• The library selects videotapes with closed captioning whenever possible and seeks to ensure that the televisions mounted in the classrooms allow use of this feature.
• Library handouts are available in large print upon request.