Accessibility is an ongoing priority and commitment for the Furman Libraries. Our goal is to provide access to the Libraries’ spaces and online resources in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 508 of the Workforce Rehabilitation Act, WCAG 2.1 at Level AA, and other applicable accessibility standards and guidelines.

Our work in identifying and removing barriers to physical accessibility is ongoing. Currently all three Furman libraries offer handicapped push buttons on the main entrances and physical access to all public spaces and collections.

Prior to visiting one of our libraries, please view handicapped accessible parking information on our "Visitor Information" webpage.

If you would like to report a barrier to access, please fill out the Report an Accessibility Barrier form.

For Visitors

Overview

The Furman Libraries committed to developing accessible templates for our website (e.g., navigation, headers, and footers) in the fall of 2015. All of the pages on our website have bypass links to skip to the main content. Each branch library site uses different navigation links, but the headers, footers, and navigation are all organized and function in the same way. We have also developed LibGuides standards and best practices, and provided training to our web content authors to facilitate the creation of accessible content. Our work in remediating inaccessible website content and functionality is ongoing.

Library Databases and eResources

Many of our online resources such as databases and eBooks are built and maintained by outside groups and third party vendors. The accessibility of these eResources varies. We are in the process of evaluating policies and workflows that will lead to improved accessibility of electronic resources.

Screen Readers

A screen reader is software that works in concert with other programs to read aloud the information displayed on a computer screen. Personal copies of screen readers are available to Furman students through the Student Office of Accessibility Resources.

All Macs on campus have the screen reader software VoiceOver.

The PCs in the Duke Library's Research Commons and 24 Hour Study Lounge have the screen reader software NVDA. Using NVDA, along with Windows’ native accessibility features, blind and visually impaired patrons can log onto one of these computers, launch a web browser, and navigate accessible web content.

Instructions for Activating the NVDA Screen Reader

Please let us know if you have any questions or suggestions, or if you are experiencing obstacles when trying to use the Libraries' spaces, resources, or services.

Contact us at: library.accessibility@furman.edu