Over the past few semesters, NC’s Libraries and Learning Commons teams have been working hard to improve access to library services and increase accessibility for all library users.
“The mission of the Libraries and Learning Commons is to enhance the learning, teaching and research experience for all Niagara College students and staff,” said Gordana Vitez, Director, Library and Learning Commons. “We have always supported our users with online accessible resources, by providing alternative formats for print library books through the Accessible Content E-Portal (ACE), and the Test Centre and are proud to have increased the accessibility of the physical spaces.”
New shelving was installed in NC’s Libraries and Learning Commons to create easier access to books and improve sight lines.
Recently, the Libraries and Learning Commons at both the Welland Campus and the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake were outfitted with all new shelving to create easier access to all printed materials and enhanced sight lines which make for a more welcoming and engaging space. The new shelves are lower in height and have wider spacing between the shelves to allow for easy access as library users browse the selection of books, all in compliance with AODA.
Additional study pods have also been installed at both campuses to provide more quiet study options for students. Pods can be booked for up to two hours a day and each pod comes with a display TV. There are seven study pods available at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake and nine at the Welland Campus. All study pods can be booked online through the Libraries and Learning Commons website.
Study pods have been installed at both campuses to provide more quiet study options for students.
“We’re pleased to offer all NC students access to private near-silent study spaces that students can use for group work or silent study; whichever is needed for them to succeed academically,” said Kimberly Christmas, Director, Library and Learning Commons. “The new study pods are a welcome and popular addition to the bookable spaces available through the Libraries and Learning Commons and we encourage all students to take advantage of them.”
The six-person study pods, available at both campuses, are large enough to accommodate wheelchair users.
A final enhancement at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus is an accessible height service counter, which now matches with the service counter at the Welland Campus.
For more information about the way the Libraries and Learning Commons supports students, faculty and staff with disabilities, click here.
