Alternative Formats Service
The Alternative Formats Service provides accessible copies of library resources and teaching materials to students and staff who have print disabilities. We also offer access to self-service support tools and databases such as RNIB Bookshare, and can advise staff on making teaching materials more accessible.
We can provide:
- Printed materials in an electronic format
- Electronic resources that reflow when magnified and can be read aloud by a screen reader
- Electronic resources that do not have restrictions that cause difficulties
We keep a record of all alternative formats we produce. Copies created should not be distributed to anyone else except the intended recipient. We can supply these records to users and rightsholders upon request.
Eligibility
If you find that some library resources are difficult to use, you may have a print disability. You might have a print disability if you:
- Have a reading or learning disability, such as dyslexia or ADHD
- Have a visual disability such as blindness or low vision
- Have a physical, mobility or flexibility disability that makes using a library resource difficult
Legal and Compliance
Under the Equality Act 2010, we have a moral and legal duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled students and staff. This includes providing library resources in alternative formats.
We can supply copyrighted works due to the Copyright and Related Rights (Marrakesh Treaty etc.) (Amendment) Regulations 2018, which enables us to copy texts on behalf of print disabled users.
We can also provide training and support to make your content more accessible and compliant with the Digital Accessibility Regulations 2018. If you have reviewed the THRIVES guidance and would like to learn more, get in touch.
