We are constantly trying to improve, so if there is something we can help you with, or for information on step-free access, then please get in touch. All our libraries have accessible toilets.

Find books, journals and articles

Our Library Search has screen content, browser titles, and buttons which are optimised for screen readers. For the best experience searching Library Search, open your screen reader before opening your web browser and use these compatible screen readers paired with the named operating systems and browsers:

• Compatible screen reader list

Most databases and browsers have inbuilt accessibility settings that can be switched on.

Ebooks

Most of our ebooks are supplied by ProQuest Ebook Central. You will find them using Library Search. To change the accessibility settings within Ebook Central:

• Open Ebook Central
• Go to Settings and select Profile

Create your own profile including options to:

• Enable Accessibility Mode
• Use OpenDyslexic typeface

PDF documents

Some information resources are provided as PDF documents. This Adobe page explains how to use accessibility features within Adobe Acrobat Reader including changing background colour and text.

Spell checker

All browsers (Edge, Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox) have spell check functionality. You can switch this on in your browser settings. This should enable spell check functionality on services such as our Library Webchat.

Our libraries have the following assistive equipment:

• Hand held magnifiers - Hand-held magnifiers help you see small print more clearly. They are easy to carry and simple to use. You can hold them at the angle that works best for you. They may be useful for reading labels, footnotes or any other text you find small.
• Magnifying sheets - Magnifying sheets make reading large areas of text easier by making the text appear larger. They cover more space than a small magnifier, so you don’t have to move them as much. They can be used with books, journals and digital screens. They may help reduce eye strain when reading for a long time.
• Line readers - A tool designed to help people with visual impairments, reading difficulties, or cognitive challenges read text more easily. It helps users focus on a single line instead of being overwhelmed by an entire page of text.
• Large print keyboard - A keyboard designed to make typing easier for people with visual impairments or other accessibility needs.  The keyboard has extra-large letters, numbers, and symbols printed on the keys. Uses high-contrast colours (e.g., black keys with white or yellow letters) for better visibility.
• Wireless quiet keyboard - Wireless quiet keyboards can be helpful for users with sensitivity to noise, as they minimise distracting sounds. Their cordless design can be helpful for people who have difficulty with mobility and those who use assistive devices, as it’s easier to change the position of the keyboard in your desk setup.
• USB numeric keypad - A small external keyboard that connects via USB and provides only number keys and basic arithmetic functions. It allows easier number entry and is easy to reposition on your desk. This type of keyboard can be helpful if you have repetitive strain injuries or find a full-size keyboard difficult or overwhelming to use. Some assistive software or devices work better with a numeric keypad.
• Ergonomic mouse - An ergonomic mouse is a type of computer mouse designed to reduce strain and discomfort during prolonged use. Its shape and features are optimized to support a more natural hand, wrist and arm position, which helps prevent repetitive strain injuries (RSI) and conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Gel wrist keyboard support - A gel keyboard wrist support is designed to improve comfort and ergonomics while typing. Using a wrist support reduces the strain on wrists by keeping them in a neutral position, as well as providing cushioning and preventing contact with hard desk surfaces. It can help with improving posture by elevating wrists to encourage proper alignment of hands and forearms, helping to reduce strain and fatigue.
• Monitor risers - Monitor risers are an adjustable stand for a computer screen, which you can raise/lower so that the screen is at an appropriate eye level. A monitor riser helps to reduce fatigue and neck strain by keeping the screen level, supporting your posture.
• Headphones - Headphones enable you to listen to sound from videos, meetings and webinars once connected to your device. Headphones are available with or without a microphone. We also have wired headphones that connect using an aux cord or wireless headphones you can connect using Bluetooth.
• Noise cancelling headphones - Over-ear headphones designed to reduce or block out external noise. This is useful for improving concentration by blocking out distracting sounds. It is also helpful if you experience sensory overload or if you find that noise can feel overwhelming. Some people use noise cancelling headphones to feel calmer in noisy environments.
• Colour reading overlays and sheets - When placed over a piece of text, these sheets reduce glare and improve clarity. This can be particularly useful if you find it difficult to read black text on white backgrounds, have dyslexia or struggle with visual stress.
• Coloured computer screen overlays - These overlays give a coloured tint to the screen. This can assist visual processing by reducing visual discomfort, minimising migraine triggers and improving text clarity.
• Reading pen -  A pen that offers text-to-speech support. You can move the reading pen over printed lines of text, which the pen will scan and read aloud. It can also be used to expand selected words to be viewed in a larger size. This can be helpful for if you have difficulties with your vision or reading.
• 360 degree manual height adjustable PC table (Lower Ground Floor) - The 360-degree feature allows you to rotate the table to any angle, supporting different postures (sitting or standing) and reducing strain on the back and neck. 
• Manual height adjustable desk (Quiet Study Area on Mezzanine Floor) - You can switch between sitting and standing, improving posture and reducing fatigue during long study sessions.

Our services include:

• Postal loans
• Training sessions delivered by Zoom or in our libraries

This is free assistive software to help learners with literacy difficulties including dyslexia. It only works on Windows. Free to download, it can be used from a USB stick or from your desktop. 

Join our Peer support service for members with lived experience of disability and/or neurodiversity. You may find our neurodiversity reading list useful.

If you are visiting the Museum or attending an event, you can use the following guides to help you prepare:

• Visiting the Museum - what to expect

• Attending our events - what to expect

Visit the Royal College of Nursing's page on Accessibility and to read the accessibility statement.