Library & Information Technology Services for Individuals with Disabilities

Columbia University is committed to ensuring that the services and programs offered by the Libraries and CUIT are accessible to all patrons. The University works with patrons on an individual basis to assess their unique accommodation needs. If you have any questions, please contact the Access Services Division liaison, Mayra Melendez, at (212) 854-3536 or mm57@columbia.edu.

Library Orientation

Orientations to the traditional and electronic information services available at any of Columbia University’s libraries can be arranged.

Catalog Assistance

Assistance can be provided with either CLIO, Columbia’s Online Catalog, or paper card catalogs. Please contact the Access Services Division liaison or ask for assistance at the Reference Desk in Butler Library.

Loans

Patrons with mobility-related disabilities may designate a Deputy Borrower and/or renew library books via telephone. Please contact the Access Services Division liaison to register for these services.

Photocopying

Accessible photocopiers are available in all Columbia University Libraries.

Stack Access

Patrons who are unable to access the bookstacks may request that circulating materials housed in the stacks be retrieved and brought to a library location of their choice. Please allow 1-2 business days and provide the full bibliographic citation to the Access Services Division liaison.

Lockers

Patrons wishing to request a locker in Butler Library for disability-related reasons must first register with and provide medical documentation supporting their request to the Office of Disability Services. Please visit the ODS website at www.health.columbia.edu or contact (212) 854-2388 for more information.

Equipment

Butler Library has accessible workstations available in two public locations within the Library. These workstations, located near the Circulation desk on the third floor and in the Digital Humanities Center in room 305, are equipped with both Window Eyes screen reading software and Zoom TEXT screen reading and magnification software. Also located at each of these locations are Closed Circuit Televisions, used to enlarge texts for reading purposes.