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The University of Bolton Library

Library Website: Additional Learning Support

Additional Learning Support

The University of Bolton Library is committed to helping our users get the most out of its our services, resources and facilities. The following additional services are offered to anyone with a disability of any kind.

To find out more about the wide range of support available from the University of Bolton please visit the Services for Disabled Students web pages.

Enhanced Services

Provision of additional services for users is matched to the specific needs of each individual. If you are registered with the University as having a need for additional learning support, we can provide:

  • A hands-on introduction to our facilities and software using an appointment system.
  • Copies, on request, of most in-house publications in large print format.
  • Flexible loan arrangements. However, this may not be possible for the most popular items. Loans will also be subject to recall and fines if overdue.
  • Assistance with the Library self-issue system, if required.
  • Inter-Library loan requests by post. For further information please see the Inter-Library Loans service web page.
  • Subject searches of electronic resources and the Internet. Contact your Academic Librarian to arrange for searches to be done for you.
  • Advice on your subject.  Academic Librarians are available to advise you on choosing materials. Please ask your Academic Librarian or at the Help Desk.
  • A photocopying service for those with a visual impairment or mobility problem. We aim to guarantee a 24 hour service i.e. collect after 24 hours. Charges are the same as for self-service copies.
  • Help with reaching material from shelves. Ask any member of staff for assistance. 
  • Help with checking reading lists and finding books, for those with a visual impairment or mobility problem.

Assistive Technology & Equipment

There are 2 dedicated areas within the Library which offer software and hardware specialist facilities. The Student Support room, which is bookable by students at the Library Help Desk up to 4 weeks in advance for a 2 hour period per day. The Assistive Technology room is open access.

The Facilities in these areas include:

  • Texthelp Read and Write 11 Gold and Mindview 6.0 which are available on the University network
  • Mindview 6.0 which are available on the University network
  • Dragon Naturally Speaking (microphone/headphones available from the Library Help Desk)
  • Supernova 15
  • Bookreader/enhancer scanners
  • High-visibility and ergonomic keyboards
  • Footrests
  • Document holders

RNIB Bookshare

RNIB Bookshare provides accessible textbooks and materials to support print-disabled learners. Bookshare offers a range of accessible formats that can be read electronically or adapted to suit personal reading needs. Over 458,383 titles are available with more being added all the time!

All eligible students at the University are given the opportunity to register for an RNIB Bookshare account. 

Who is eligible to access RNIB Bookshare?

RNIB Bookshare is available to students with a qualifying visual impairment, learning disability or physical disability. See the RNIB Bookshare website for more information. 

If you are unsure if you would be eligible, please contact the Disability Service. 

How do I get access to RNIB Bookshare? 

Please contact the Disability Service to make an appointment, or attend one of their regular drop-ins. Once Disability have confirmed your eligibility for RNIB Bookshare, Library staff will contact you with login details for the service. You will then be able to login and download accessible versions of textbooks whenever you want. 

I've got login details for RNIB Bookshare, how do I use the service?

The Library's Enable Team can support you in using RNIB Bookshare. Please contact the Enable Team if you need any assistance. Alternatively, there are a range of "how-to" videos available on the RNIB website.