February 27, 2025, by uazawm

Explore Our Assistive Study Spaces: A Guide to Assistive Technology and Enhanced Support Rooms

In Libraries we are committed to ensuring every student has the resources and spaces they need to succeed. As part of our Enhanced Library Support we provide students who have additional learning needs dedicated spaces including Assistive Technology Rooms (ATR) and Enhanced Support Rooms (ESR). Whether you require specialist accessibility equipment, a quiet environment or  adaptable furniture to support your studies, we have facilities tailored to your needs.

To use these spaces you must have a support plan from Disability Support Services.

Assistive Technology Rooms (ATR)

Our ATR’s are bookable study rooms within our libraries that offer a range of specialist hardware and software to support students with disabilities or additional learning needs. These rooms include:

• Adjustable desks for ergonomic comfort, allowing you to work in a way that suits you best.
• Magnifiers to assist students with visual impairments, ensuring that text and materials are accessible.
• Assistive software available via the University network, including:
  • Text-to-speech and screen reader software.
  • Speech recognition and dictation tools.
  • Mind-mapping software to support research and essay planning.
  • Alternative format tools that allow conversion of materials into accessible formats, such as braille or audio.

ATR spaces are ideal for students who benefit from technology-driven learning tools. Whether you need to enlarge text, convert print to speech or use speech-to-text applications, our ATR facilities provide a supportive and inclusive environment for study.

Enhanced Support Rooms (ESR)

For students eligible for Enhanced Library Support Services we offer dedicated study rooms in:

• Hallward Library
• George Green Library
• James Cameron-Gifford Library
• Greenfield Medical Library

These spaces are designed to provide an optimal study environment with minimal distractions. ESRs offer a private and quiet atmosphere which is ideal for students who require additional support to focus on their studies.

Students with disabilities or specific learning requirements can use these spaces to create a comfortable, personalised learning experience. If you require Enhanced Library Support and are unsure of your eligibility, we encourage you to contact Disability Support Services for guidance on accessing these spaces.

How to Book

Both ESR and ATR study spaces can be booked online via LibCal, the University’s room booking system. This ensures students can plan their study sessions in advance and secure a space that best meets their requirements.

Book a Study Space

To make the booking process smooth, we recommend:

• Checking your eligibility for Enhanced Library Support before attempting to book an ESR.
• Booking in advance to secure your preferred study time.
• Cancelling any bookings you no longer need so the space can be used by others.

Exploring Before You Visit:

We understand that knowing what to expect before visiting a study space can be helpful. That’s why we offer virtual tours of our Assistive Technology Rooms in Hallward Library and George Green Library. These tours allow students to familiarise themselves with the spaces and the equipment available.

Take a virtual tour: View ATR spaces here

Supporting an Inclusive Learning Environment:

We recognise everyone’s learning experience is different so we are committed to ensuring equal access to library facilities and support services.

If you have any questions about booking a study space, using assistive technology, or accessing Enhanced Library Support then contact our Library team, we’re always happy to help.

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