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Disability Support: Computers and assistive software

Information about the facilities and support available within Library Services for students, staff and visitors with additional needs.

Listen to this page!

You can make the text on this page read aloud when using the Edge web browser - right-click anywhere on the page and choose Read Aloud, or use the A)) symbol in the search bar at the top of the screen. The Voice Options button will appear at the top right of the screen after you launch Read Aloud.

Computers and Assistive Software

Computers and assistive software

Learning Tools in O365 can help you to improve your writing, reading, comprehension and reading speed by reading text on the screen aloud, allowing you to make the screen easier to read and dictating your work with your voice. These features are available in Word, Outlook, Teams, OneNote and Lens. The MS Edge browser allows you to access these features on web pages and PDF files. O365 can be downloaded to your own devices for free.

All networked PCs campus-wide, including the library PCs, have ColorVeil installed. 

ColorVeil allows you to add a tinted overlay to the entire desktop, which may make reading easier and help minimise eyestrain. You can customise the colour and opacity to suit your preferences. You can download ColorVeil for free using the link provided (Windows PCs only) or you can try their browser extension for use with all Chromium based browsers (including Chrome, Firefox, MS Edge on Windows and Mac). If you would like more information on the benefits of using ColorVeil please visit the ColorVeil website.

More information on making your device easier to use:

AbilityNet "My Computer My Way" - lots of suggestions for adjusting your device to suit your needs.

DnA (Diversity & Ability) - a resources page with reviews of numerous apps and programmes which may be helpful; some are free, others involve a cost. 

If you have questions on any of the above, please contact the Library Disability Support Advisor. There are also online tutorials available through the Brightspace HudStudy module, and one-to-one support sessions can be booked with a Digital Skills advisor.

Accessible Workstations

Accessible workstations

There are 9 electric height-adjustable workstations in the library, and 2 manually adjustable desks in the 24-hour computer rooms: 

Floor:  Location:                       Type:         Scanner attached?
2

1 : In the PC Room (SB2/06).

2:  On the left near windows beyond Group Study Room SB2/11.

Electric

Electric

Yes

Yes

3

1: In the Quiet Study area with Mac computers.

2: Next to the female toilets, near the rolling shelves.

Electric

Electric

Yes

No

4

One desk in each of the

24-hour computer rooms.

Manual

(See Reception for the handle)

No
5

1: In the Quiet Study area to left of the entrance to the Music Library.

2: At the edge of the Quiet Study area near the Health books.

3: Near the female toilets.

4: On the right hand side in the PGR room

Electric

Electric
 

Electric

Electric

Yes

No

 

No

No

6

1: Next to the Skills Development room (SB6/05).

2: In the Quiet Study area opposite the accessible toilet.

Electric

Electric

No

Yes

Printing

Printing

Printers are available on each floor of the library, including the 24-hour computer suite and the group study area on Level 4. These Multi-Functional Devices (MFDs) will allow you to print, copy and scan documents. 

• For general information on using the printers, see the library webpage about IT Facilities in the Library.

• If you are a student in receipt of Disabled Students' Allowance and wish to claim back your printing expenses, please use the Print History form available on HudHelp (after logging in, click on Library & Research, then Student Printing).

Coloured paper for printing is available from the Disability Support Office on Level 4 of the library. 

• For a step-by-step guide to printing and scanning documents to your email, download these instructions: 

Library Floor Maps

Library Floor Maps

Download maps of the library floors showing the location of study areas, bookable rooms, drinking water, accessible toilets, height-adjustable desks, and fire exits:

IT Support

You can contact IT support:

We also have lots of help and support available on our webpages including links to activate your accountreset your password and IT Training.