Annual report 2023–24

We work to continuously improve and widen access to our resources as part of our focus on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Here’s how we increased the accessibility of our student education and cultural resources this year.

Accessibility boost for study rooms

We worked with our users to upgrade our accessible study rooms with better equipment across all our libraries, and with Disability Services to improve our accessibility webpages. Users can now also request additional equipment from library desks as needed.

Integrated accessibility for ebooks

A key reason for subscribing to a new ebooks platform, Perlego, was its accessibility features and commitment to inclusivity. These are an integral part of the platform, including:

• read aloud (text-to-speech)
• easily adjust colours and text settings
• alt-text and descriptions for all image settings
• use of BeeLine (a tool that makes reading on a screen easier).

Perlego also widens access to titles in languages other than English and textbook content that we have been unable to supply previously.

ACCESSories Hub (strategic priority 20)

We are always seeking innovative and inclusive ways to engage visitors and improve access to culture on campus. The new ACCESSories Hub in our Galleries provides a range of resources for enhanced interpretation of art and exhibits.

Visitor feedback:

Thank you for asking for external input, this already feels like accessibility in action.

I liked the sensory station in particular. I think it helps people to stay longer here.