Accessibility and Library Services

Digital and Printed Content

The Kennedy Library is committed to making both printed and digital content accessible to individuals with disabilities. In collaboration with Information Technology Services (ITS) and the Disability Resource Center (DRC), the Library provides a wide range of tools, from screen-enlarging software to text-readers and more, which can enhance the accessibility of textual documents. Wherever possible, the Library produces accessible versions of electronic course reserves, and may be able to assist with other accommodations. Library users are encouraged to ask for assistance at any public service desk.

The Disability Resource Center can also provide on-demand conversions of Library resources to students who have registered with them. For more information, see the DRC web site.

Web Site

The design of the Cal Poly Library web site is an ongoing effort. Most content as well as accessibility of online applications was reviewed beginning in 2006, and we are proud that most of our web site meets important standards. Our goal is to provide a web experience that is accessible to all patrons with a range of abilities. We follow W3C standards as well as the California State University Accessible Technology Initiative.

Do you see an area for improvement? Let us know.

Reference, Circulation, and other Library Assistance

For an overview of the Library including accommodations for special access needs, users are encouraged to make an appointment with their college librarian to arrange a personal tour based on your interests and needs.

To ask short information questions via e-mail send your query to ref@lib.calpoly.edu, or use the email or instant messaging chat form.

For telephone research questions call the Reference Desk at 805-756-2649. For questions regarding checking out of materials, reserve materials, interlibrary loan etc. call the Circulation Desk at 805-756-5760.

When extended individual attention is needed (beyond 10-15 minutes) library users are encouraged to make an appointment with their college librarian or other staff member if appropriate.

All students may renew books either online or over the telephone. To renew books online go to Polycat and click on "My Account". To renew books by telephone call the Circulation Desk at 805-756-5760. Any request for individualized borrowing privileges should be made at the Circulation Desk.

Permission to check out reference materials for short periods of time may be granted at the discretion of a librarian.

Library materials will be paged upon request for users with disabilities. Requests for paging of items should be made at the Circulation Desk. Items will be retrieved based on staff availability and students will be notified when they should return for the materials. Materials paged after regular business hours (8 am to 5 pm) may not be available until the next business day.

Links to Information & Services

General

Services