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Accessibility Services

Welcome to the OISE Library!  This page describes the library's services for students and others who may need accommodation in using the library's resources. These services are offered in addition to the services normally available for our users.

The Contact Librarian is Patricia Serafini:

Finding Library Materials

Reference staff is available for help with searching our on-line catalogue and other databases, in person or by phone at  416-978-1860.You may e-mail askeloise@utoronto.ca; please allow at least 24 hours for a reply.

To book an in-depth session to help you improve your research skills, contact Pat Serafini, 416 978-1903 or pat.serafini@utoronto.ca at least 1 business day in advance. Consultations can be booked online as well.  The consultation can be done with an accessible workstation available in the EC lab.  The accessible workstation has to be booked as well, so it is advisable to plan ahead.

Retrieval from Library Stacks

When you are not able to retrieve materials from library stacks, please contact Pat Serafini, 416-978-1903 or pat.serafini@utoronto.ca or Monique Flaccavento 416-978-1867, or monique.flaccavento@utoronto.ca.  We normally require 24 hours notice but will try to accommodate last minute requests. We will retrieve the items and hold them for you at the Circulation Desk. Please advise us if you no longer require the items.

Photocopying / Scanning Service

If you need staff to photocopy or scan an item, you must allow for a minimum of 24 hours turnaround time.  There will be a charge of 10 cents per page, payable by you upon receipt of the copy.  If the item is scanned and e-mailed to you, the amount will be added to your library account.

Extended Borrowing Periods

If you need extra time when borrowing our materials please contact Pat Serafini, 416-978-1903 or pat.serafini@utoronto.ca, or Monique Flaccavento 416-978-1867 or monique.flaccavento@utoronto.ca. You will be required to provide proof that you are registered with Accessibility Services at the University of Toronto.  We retain the right to recall a book if it is in high demand or if you have renewed it for more than 90 days.

Alternative Format Materials

Please call Pat Serafini, 416-978-1903 or pat.serafini@utoronto.ca.  You will be required to provide proof that you are registered with Accessibility Services at the University of Toronto.  She will communicate with you regarding the procedures. Alternative formats include Braille, large print, audio, Daisy Digital and e-text.

Adaptive Technology

  • The library has a CCTV scanner to view materials in the library. The CCTV enlarges text and provides adjustable contrast.
  • The library has one PC workstation for persons with wheelchairs.
  • PC workstations with accessible software are available in the EC computer labs.

Proxy Borrower Authorization

If you need to have someone else checkout books on your behalf, you should designate a proxy borrower to retrieve and checkout materials in your name. You are responsible for the materials checked out by the proxy. A T-Card and a letter of authorization is required at the time of checkout

Library Accessibility

The library has:

  • 1 accessible entrance 
  • 1 accessible washroom (on the Ground Floor)
  • 1 accessible elevator (South elevator) 

In Case of Emergency

  • Call 416-978-2222
  • State that a fire alarm is sounding, but you are mobility impaired
  • Report if you smell smoke or are in danger
  • Provide your exact location - floor and room number
  • Provide a phone number or extension you are calling from
  • Call back if conditions deteriorate

Members of the Public with Accessibility Accommodation Needs

Your needs are imporant to us.  Please identify yourself to a staff member at the Circulation Desk and communicate your need.  It may be necessary for you or your assistant to return at a later time or for us to refer you elsewhere.

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