Accessibility at the Library
Here at the University Library it is important to us that all patrons be able to access the resources they need to. We offer special services to those who have a disability of any kind. Please click the links above to find out more about our disability services unique to each campus.
Accessibility at the Brownsville Campus
Information & Services for Users with Special Needs
It is an important goal of the Library to provide efficient access to research materials and services for users with temporary or permanent disabilities.
Library Services
The Library is committed to offer facilities and services to assist patrons with disabilities. Patrons with disability-related needs are encouraged to request accommodations. Library staff will make good faith efforts to accommodate reasonable requests for assistance in obtaining, accessing, and making use of library resources, materials and services.
Copy Service
The OCLab does not have photocopiers or printers that are specifically ADA-compliant but offers equipment that assists in visibility in the OCLab on the first floor. If a user with disabilities is unable to make his or her copies, Library staff will make or print a copy of the document for a user.
Item Retrieval Assistance
The staff at the Library and Research Services Desk will help patrons retrieve materials from inaccessible shelves. Other special requests (e.g., long-term checkout of Reserve books or journals) are addressed by the University Librarian.
Government Documents Resources
Government resources, including Braille resources, are available. To work with a librarian, contact (956) 882-7205.
Special Assistance
Librarians can provide assistance with research, either at the Library and Research Services Desk or by appointment. Other special requests are addressed by the University Librarian.
Physical Access - Entrances and Exits
The main entrance of the Library provides automatic entrances and exits
Service Animals
Only assistance animals are permitted in the Library. The library may exclude any animal, including a service animal, from the facility when that animal's behavior poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others, or when its behavior creates a disruption.
Restrooms and Water Fountains
Wheelchair-accessible restrooms and water fountains are located on the first, second and third floor of the Library.
Elevators
The Library elevator is wheelchair-accessible.
Adaptive Equipment
As a convenience, the Library offers a limited range of adaptive equipment.
For comprehensive assistance with adaptive equipment, as well as programs and services, enrolled or prospective students with disabilities are encouraged to contact the Student Accessibility Services in Cortez 129. Call (956) 882-7374 or visit their website.
Electronic Resource Computer Workstation
An accessibility computer workstation with special software applications such as Zoomtext is available in the OCLab on the first floor of the Library. The computer station requires a username and password to login, and printing is available. The staff at the Library and Research Services Desk is available if assistance is needed.
Adjustable Accessibility Computer Workstation
There is a wide and high computer workstation for wheelchair users located in the OCLab on the first floor of the Library. The computer station requires a username and password to login, and printing is available. The adjustable accessibility station offers the Aladdin Classic Video Magnifier machine for users with visual impairments that may want to enlarge print materials. If needed, Library and Research Services Desk staff is available for assistance.
Videophone
There is a Sorenson VP-200 model videophone in Room 2.102 on the 2nd floor of the Library for the use of hearing-impaired patrons. Visit the Library and Research Services Desk on the first floor if you have any questions.
Guides
ZoomText Quick Reference Guide
Local Transportation
Online Resources
Accessibility at the Edinburg Campus
Information & Services for Users with Special Needs
It is an important goal of the library to provide efficient access to research materials and services for users with temporary or permanent disabilities.
Library Services
The library is committed to offering facilities and services to assist patrons with disabilities and our staff will make good faith efforts to accommodate reasonable requests for assistance. Patrons with disability-related needs are encouraged to request accommodations in obtaining, accessing, and making use of library resources, materials, and services. Help is available on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd floor service desks.
Item Retrieval & Checkout Assistance
The staff at the first floor Circulation Desk will help patrons retrieve materials from inaccessible shelves. Library staff at the third floor Media & Reserves desk can assist patrons with retrieval, use, and check out of university course reserves and library media, such as audio and video recording equipment, laptops, tablets and other media-related devices.
Research Assistance
Librarians can provide assistance with patron research, either at the 2nd floor Reference & Instructional Services Desk, or by appointment, contact (956) 665-2752. Other special requests are addressed by the University Librarian.
Government Documents Resources
Government resources, including Braille resources, are available via our Brownsville campus. These materials can be sent via Intercampus Mail as necessary. To work with a Brownsville campus librarian, contact (956) 882-7205.
Physical Access – Entrances and Exits
The main entrance of the Library has wheelchair accessible ramps leading up to the building and the automatic sliding doors provide entrance to and exit from the library.
Elevators
The library elevator is wheelchair-accessible and provides access to all four floors of the Library.
Restrooms & Water Fountains
Wheelchair accessible restrooms and water fountains are on all floors of the library.
Service Animals
Only assistance animals are permitted in the Library. The library may exclude any animal, including a service animal, from the facility when that animal's behavior poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others, or when its behavior creates a disruption.
Accessible Furniture
There are tables, desks, and computer workstations specifically designated for patrons in wheelchairs located throughout the library in both quiet and group study areas.
Adaptive Technologies
As a convenience, the library offers a limited range of adaptive equipment and software.
The 2nd floor offers JAWS screen reading software and scanner, large monitors, and Sorenson VRS (Video Relay Service). Arrangements to access these resources can be made in person at the 2nd floor Reference & Instructional Services Desk, or by contacting (956) 665-2752.
The 3rd floor offers two Kurzweil machines and one 20/20 Plus Optelec for visually-challenged patrons, as well as Dragon Speech Recognition Software. Arrangements to access these resources can be made in person at the 3rd floor in Media & Reserves Desk, or by contacting (956) 665-2763.
User Guides
JAWS for Windows Quick Start Guide
University Resources
University Library – Brownsville Campus
Other Resources
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS)