Services

Access for People with Disabilities

SMU Libraries’ Services for Persons with Disabilities

SMU Libraries are committed to providing resources for students with disabilities, creating open dialogue in order to better serve all users, and increasing access to our spaces and services. For more information regarding services provided by Bridwell Library, and other libraries on campus, please visit our accessibility page. If you have questions or concerns, please contact libraryaccess@smu.edu or submit your suggestions on our feedback form

Building Accessibility

All SMU parking is handled by the SMU Parking and ID Card Services Offices

There are two ramps for patrons to use to access Bridwell Library. One ramp is located on the side of the front south door from the parking lot between Bridwell Library and Perkins Hall. Access to this ramp can also be gained from the sidewalk from Bishop Blvd. Another ramp leads to the north door from the parking lot between Bridwell Library and Owens Fine Arts Center. When you approach this door, use the intercom marked “Press button and wait for answer” to speak with someone with Access Services for entry. Please remain clear of the doors as they open outward. Once you enter the library the North Elevator is available to reach the basement level.

For additional assistance, please contact SMU Services for People with Disabilities.

Assistive Technology

Bridwell Library provides two accessible computer stations for those with disabilities, one on the first floor, and one in the basement. Bridwell Library staff is available to assist library users who encounter difficulty in locating materials. There is also a HELP phone in the basement next to the print station. For assistance, lift the receiver and select the “Circulation Desk” line button.

Software

The following software is available on the first floor Reading Assistance Station:

JAWS Screen Reading Software

Reads aloud what is on the PC screen and allows for comprehensive keyboard interaction with the computer.
Provides access to many software applications and most web browsers, including Mozilla Firefox and Internet Explorer.

For more information, please inquire with library staff, or see this guide.

Kurzweil 3000 Text-to-Speech Software

Documents, including library materials, can be scanned and the software will read the text aloud.
PDF and other types of files can also be converted to MP3 audio files and saved to external storage (cloud or flashdrive) for later listening.

For more information, please inquire with library staff, or see this guide.

ZoomText Screen Magnification Application

Allows a person to see and hear everything on the computer screen, providing access to applications, documents, email and web browsing.
Can read text aloud when integrated with other products.

For more information, please inquire with library staff, or see this guide.