Disabled Readers

Access to the library

The Bodleian Libraries make every effort to assist readers with a disability. Please ask any member of EFL staff for assistance or feel free to contact Sonya Adams (Reader Services Librarian) to discuss your specific requirements. Readers with a declared disability may wish to contact the library before coming to Oxford.

If possible, wheelchair users should contact the library prior to their visit and also inform the St. Cross Building porters so they can be met and assisted. Telephone (01865) 271050 for the library and (01865) 271481 for the porters.

Wheelchair access is via a separate ramped entrance to the ground floor of the St Cross Building. The location of this entrance is in the car-park at the front of the building facing St Cross Road and behind the bicycle stands. To the left of the ground floor entrance is a grey box mounted on the wall containing a telephone. This provides a direct line to the Porters Lodge through which readers can request assistance.

Dimensions within the library

Desks: Height from floor to table top (space underneath) = 69cm. Desktops = 4.5cm thick
PC Desks: Height from floor to table top = 64.5cm
Shelving: Variable. Overall height = 217.5cm
Photocopiers: Height = 97cm
Lift: Height = 205.5cm, width = 169cm, depth = 125cm

Services for readers with disabilities

Services we can offer for readers with disabilities include:

  • General assistance: Fetching books from shelves and help in using the online catalogues/electronic resources. 
  • Special loan periods: Readers with disabilities may renew books by phone. 
  • Nominated person : Library staff are happy to allow college helpers to borrow books for readers who are unable to come to the library. The name of the nominated person will be added to the reader's borrower record. Given prior notice, library staff may be able to locate books and put them aside for the reader. 
  • Library leaflets : We have large print (Arial font size 18 on pale yellow paper) copies of our information leaflets. We are also able to have leaflets transcribed in to Braille on request. 
  • Eating and drinking : Food and drink may be consumed in the library for medical reasons. Water is available from the office. 
  • Guide Dogs : Guide dogs and hearing dogs are welcome. 
  • Hearing loop : a hearing loop system has been installed at the Issue Desk.

 For further information, please contact Sonya Adams

Ramped entrance to the library