Accessibility Statement
University Libraries is committed to creating an environment of respect and inclusion for our patrons, and we strive to ensure equitable access to all of our facilities, resources and services.
Library Services for Persons with Disabilities
Book Retrieval
If you need assistance requesting materials throughout the University Libraries system, please contact any Ohio State Libraries Circulation desk for assistance. If you would prefer to have a list of material retrieved on your behalf, send a list of requested materials via email to Autumn Clipner (clipner.6@osu.edu). You will be contacted when the items are available and can be picked up at the Thompson Circulation desk on the first floor East (Oval side). Expected turnaround time is two business days.
Authorize Another Person to Check Out Books on Your Behalf
Patrons may authorize one or more persons to borrow and request library materials under the authorizing person's name. The authorizing person is responsible for all transactions made by the designated individuals. To arrange an authorization, print off the Patron Authorization Request Form, provide the requested information, and bring the form to the Thompson Library Circulation Desk. Please contact any OSU Libraries Circulation desk if you have questions or would like further information.
Document Delivery
Interlibrary Services/Document Delivery will obtain copies of articles, books or other materials not available at University Libraries for Ohio State Students, faculty and staff at no charge. Students needing accommodations including enhanced scans of print or electronic materials, please contact Student Life Disability Services for assistance.
Reference Services and Other Service Requests
Assistance with using library resources, digital content or other service requests (such as DVD purchases with close captioning capabilities) is available. Please contact the circulation desks of the Thompson or 18th Ave Libraries or email us at LIB-a11y@osu.edu.
Lockers
Lockers are available in Thompson Library for Ohio State faculty, staff and students as well as affiliated patrons in the Alumni database, Friends of the Libraries members, and those with a valid record in the University Libraries' database. Lockers are located on the ground floor and on the 1st floor near the Oval entrance. Keys to lockers are available at the Oval entrance Circulation desk (East entrance) and will be checked out to your library account.
Computers
All University Libraries' public computers have the OCIO recommended software (Screen Reader Recommendations | Office of the CIO) installed to aid with accessibility needs. Visitor/guest computer logins may be obtained at the Thompson or 18th Avenue Library Circulation Desks.
Wheelchairs
Thompson Library has wheelchairs available to help patrons move throughout the building. Wheelchairs are stored at the Thompson Library West (Neil Avenue) Security desk.
University Library Facilities Accessibility Information
Parking
Accessible parking is located on the north side of Thompson Library on Neil Avenue. Accessible parking for 18th Avenue Library is available on the south side of the building adjacent to Bricker Hall and on the north side adjacent to Scott Lab. See the Campus Map for directions.
- Directions and availability for Ohio State faculty, staff, or students
- Directions and availability for visitors
Building Entrances
All library buildings are accessible by ramps. Power-assisted door entry to Thompson Library is provided at both the East (Oval) and West (Neil Ave) entrances. Power-assisted door entry to 18th Avenue Library is provided at both the North (18th Avenue) and East entrances.
Elevators
All elevators have Braille and tactile numbering and lettering both outside and inside each elevator.
Thompson Library: Elevators in the Stacks Tower provide access to all floors. North (Oval side) elevators provide access to floors 1-4.
18th Avenue Library: Public elevators provide access to all floors.
Restrooms
Thompson Library: Wheelchair accessible restrooms are located on the ground floor south side, and the 1st floor south side.
18th Avenue Library: Wheelchair accessible restrooms are located on the first floor with power-assisted doors.
Drinking Fountains
All drinking fountains are wheelchair accessible.
Thompson Library: Located on the north and south sides of the buildings near the restrooms on floors 1-4 and the ground floor, south side restroom.
18th Avenue Library: Located near the elevators and the restrooms on each floor.
Additional Campus Resources
Student Life Disability Services collaborates with and empowers students who have disabilities in order to coordinate support services and programs that enable equal access to an education and university life.
The Ohio State University's (OSU’s) ADA Coordinator's Office guides the University's efforts to move beyond compliance and toward seamless access. As the University's focal point for disability-related initiatives, the ADA Coordinator's Office collaborates with University offices, government agencies, and advocacy groups to inform decision-making and ensure University compliance with state and federal mandates. Our office processes accommodations for staff, faculty, and visitors to the University, and addresses accessibility issues and reports of disability-based discrimination on campus.