Main Library and disabled users
This is an overview of access facilities at the Main Library, George Square and how we assist disabled users.
If you are a student and wish to arrange individual adjustments such as study rooms and reduced cost printing you should contact the Disability and Learning Support Service as soon as possible. None of the services mentioned in this document are instead of support you may receive from the Disability and Learning Support Service. Their contact details can be found at the bottom of this webpage.
If you are a staff member then you should contact your line manager, or your local Human Resources department.
Access
The library is situated on the south side of George Square. Wheelchair access is by the ramp to the main door. Disabled parking spaces are available at the front of the building and are accessed by the west side (closest to the Meadows). All floors have 2 accessible toilets: one left hand transfer and one right hand transfer and can be reached by lift.
The lift is wide enough to accommodate electric wheelchairs, and disabled users have priority access to the lifts. Maps can be sent out in advance and assistance dogs are welcome.
Helpdesk services
- The helpdesk on the ground floor has a lowered section for wheelchairs and an induction loop installed.
- Coloured acetates, portable desk lamps and an A4 page magnifier are available to borrow.
- All library documents are available in alternative formats upon request.
- A library trolley can be borrowed if you find it difficult to carry books.
- Extended borrowing is available for disabled students and is arranged via the Disability and Learning Support Service.
- Induction tours can be arranged.
- Staff will be happy to assist in whatever way you need such as helping with printers and photocopiers to collecting books etc
Accessible toilets
Accessible toilets are available on all floors. All floors have 2 accessible toilets one left hand transfer and one right hand transfer.
IT services
- All open access PCs have mindmapping software and TextHelp Read and Write.
- Accessible study rooms 1-3 on the first floor contain a range of assistive technology. If you are a student and wish to arrange access to these rooms please contact the Disability and Learning Support Service (details at the bottom of this webpage). If you are a member of staff please contact Viki Galt (Head of Disability Information).
Furniture and study rooms
If you are a student you may be eligible to use the accessible individual study rooms on the 1st and 3rd Floors. To arrange this students should contact the Disability and Learning Support Service (details at the bottom of the web page). All adjustable height desks and standing height desks have notices attached to them identifying them as such. Staff will be happy to show you their locations.
There are adjustable height desks located on:-
- Lower Ground Floor, East Study Area - manual.
- Ground Floor- next to pillar in front of Helpdesk on the left hand side - manual
- Ground Floor -2 beside the Quick Use computers - manual
- 1st Floor - 4 at the bank computers against the wall near the water fountain - manual
- 2nd Floor- facing the gardens on the North East side - manual
- 4th Floor - north east corner. Beside desk numbers 4-116 & 4-118 - electric
There are standing height desks located on:
- Lower Ground Floor - Study Area 1.08 - electric
- 2nd Floor -North facing against pillar - electric
- 3rd floor - in the Yellow Zone study area next to the Careers service - electric
- 5th Floor -within the post graduate area. Desk 169 - electric
Fire evacuation
If you require assistance to evacuate in an emergency you should ensure you have a PEEP (Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan). To arrange a PEEP for this building please contact your school or line manager for more information. If you are a visitor to the building and require assistance to evacuate in an emergency please inform a member of staff at the Reception Desk.
Useful contacts
Main Library
The Main Library website has information on opening hours and contact details
Disability and Inclusive Learning Service
Will provide advice and support for disabled students and students with specific learning differences (eg dyslexia).
Disability and Learning Support Service
- The University of Edinburgh
Contact details
- Work: 0131 650 6828
- Email: disability.service@ed.ac.uk
- Web: Disability and Learning Support Service
Address
- Street
Disability and Learning Support Service
University of Edinburgh
Health & Wellbeing Centre
7 Bristo Square- City
- Edinburgh
- Post Code
- EH8 9AL
Request an alternative format
If you require this document in an alternative format, please contact Viki Galt, Head of Disability Information .
Viki Galt
Head of Disability Information
- Information Services
Contact details
- Work: 0131 650 6645
- Email: viki.galt@ed.ac.uk
Address
- Street
Argyle House
Floor F West
3 Lady Lawson Street- City
- Edinburgh
- Post Code
- EH3 9DR
BSL users can contact us via Contact Scotland BSL, the on-line British Sign Language interpreting service. Find out more on the Contact Scotland BSL website.