Accessibility

Collections that the Smith community cannot access, such as hard-to-find books, are available by Interlibrary Loan. Items can be picked up at the ground-floor Central Service Point at Neilson Library after you receive the notification email.

Electronic resources are made available to all current Smith students, faculty, and staff with their Smith password. See also:

• Off-Campus Access to Databases Frequently Asked Questions
• Screen Reader Instructions for Databases

The Learning Commons offers a range of student support services, including writing assistance, research support, tutoring, the Assistive Technology Lab, and more. 

The Learning Specialist and Assistive Technologist are available in the Learning Commons to answer questions about the Accessibility Resource Center and to provide support for disability-related learning and access needs.

Assistive Technology Lab

The Assistive Technology Lab (ATL) contains both Mac and Windows machines and has specialized software such as Dragon, Kurzweil, and Big Keys. Students are welcome to use the programs to make PDFs readable through optical character recognition (OCR), text-to-speech, dictation etc. The lab also has two adjustable tables for increased accessibility and comfort. To ensure privacy and focus there is an opaque window, making the ATL an ideal spot for taking exams. For more information about assistive technology, visit Campus Community Resources.

To request Lab support or schedule a time to use the Lab, please email ithelp@smith.edu . If interested in learning more about a specific program please email arc@smith.edu .

All library buildings and collections are wheelchair accessible. Other accommodations include:

• Entrance ramps
• Elevators
• Accessible rest rooms

Assistive Technology

Smith College is committed to providing equal opportunity to persons with disabilities, including equal access to participate in and benefit from college programs, services and activities provided through electronic and information technology (EIT). Learn more about technology accessibility at Smith.

Quiet Study & Private Spaces

All library buildings offer individual and quiet spaces; the Neilson Library also offers a Reflection Room for silent prayer and meditation. See Study Spaces.

Furniture

All library buildings offer a range of soft seating, hard chairs, seats without rolling casters, seats for all body types, and seats without armrests.

Special Collections

Special Collections is committed to ensuring equal access for all visitors. See Reading Room Accessibility for more information.