Services for Patrons with Disabilities

The Catholic University of America Libraries system is committed to providing CUA students with equal access to its resources. To reach this goal, the libraries provide appropriate accommodations to Catholic University students with disabilities.

Entering the Library

Patrons who have difficulties using the stairs at the main entrance of Mullen Library may enter through the South rear entrance. CUA students who are registered with the Office of Disability Support Services [http://disabilityservices.cua.edu] can use their Cardinal Card to open the door. Patrons who have not registered and non CUA patrons must use the intercom at the South rear entrance to call library staff for assistance. Circulation desk staff is also available to assist patrons when leaving the building.

Return to Top of This Page

Assistance with Research and Using the Library

CUA Students:

Students with disabilities needing assistance at the library will need to schedule a library consultation in advance so that we can determine the appropriate services to be provided. To register, go to http://libraries.cua.edu/form/contact.cfm or call 202-319-5070. We recommend scheduling this consultation early in the semester if possible.

WRLC and Other Non-CUA Students:

Students from other institutions who require assistance need to schedule a consultation in advance by calling 202-319-5070 or filling out the online form at http://libraries.cua.edu/form/contact.cfm with an explanation of the assistance needed. Please note that priority in service is given to CUA students.

Return to Top of This Page

Assistive Technologies at Mullen Library

Mullen Library provides a computer with assistive technology in order to provide equal access to information for any student with a documented disability.

• Students who wish to use these technologies must have a valid account through the Center for Planning and Information Technology, which provides the user name and password necessary to log in to the workstation. For more information, contact CPIT at 202-319-4357 or consult their website [http://computing.cua.edu/].
  
• Equipment and software malfunctions should be reported to CPIT.
  
• Information about places in the area which provide training in assistive technology is available in the Disability Resource Guide on the Disability Support Services (DSS) website (http://disabilityservices.cua.edu/). Questions related to this list may be directed to DSS, which is located in Room 207 of the Pryzbyla Center (202-319-5211 or 202-299-2899 (TTY)).

Programs Available

The following software is available at the adaptive computer station in the MERIC Lab on the first floor of Mullen Library:

• Inspiration (Organizing Software)
  Students can organize their ideas more efficiently with Inspiration. The diagramming functions create quick flow charts and other models with content provided by the student. These diagrams translate with a click into outlines, and the audio function reads the charts and outlines to the student.
  
  
• JAWS for Windows (Screen Reading Software for the Blind)
  JAWS reads computer screens and web pages to students through headphones.
  
  
• Kurzweil 1000, Kurzweil 3000 (Text Reading Software)
  This software allows students to scan pages from books, documents, and other print publications, then reads and broadcasts the text to the patron through headphones. Other features include: a dictionary, adjustable speed for reading, and text-marking tools. Kurzweil 1000 is for blind or visually impaired students. Kurzweil 3000 is for students with learning or reading disabilities.
  
  
• MAGIc (Magnifying Software)
  This MAGIc application magnifies the computer screen to enable visually impaired students to read web pages and other documents.
  
  
• TextHELP Read and Write Gold (Reading and Writing Software)
  The TextHELP Read and Write Gold application translates a student's speech into text on the screen, while also: reading the text to the student (even a "speak as I type" function); analyzing spelling; predicting/suggesting words during composition; and providing synonyms through its built-in thesaurus.
  

Note on Headphones:
Students may bring their own headphones or check out headphones for two hours from the Circulation Desk on the first floor of Mullen. Any standard headphones compatible with portable CD players will work. Students using any application with an audio function are required to use headphones so that they do not disturb other patrons using the library.

Return to Top of This Page