Written By: Apurwa Bhattarai 

According to the U.S. Department of Justice (n.d.), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against an individual with disability at work, school, or public places. To ensure everyone, including persons with disabilities, has equal access to the services, UNT Libraries offers various ADA-compliant equipment to assist patrons in completing their work. The key component for the availability of this equipment is that UNT wants to ensure all its patrons feel included regardless of their disabilities. The availability of ADA equipment is crucial as it removes barriers and offers a sense of independence to the patron with disabilities. While researching this topic, I had the pleasure of interviewing Janelle Foster, Resource Sharing & Access Librarian and a member of the accessibility team, who provided valuable insights into the types of ADA-compliant equipment and services offered by UNT libraries. Based on my interview with Ms. Foster and my research, I present this blog to explore various kinds of ADA-compliant equipment offered by UNT libraries, and why it is important. 

ADA-compliant equipment at UNT Libraries 

UNT Libraries offers various services across different sectors including facilities with multiple carrels available on each floor and a few wheel-chair accessible study pods. In Materials Retrieval, any service desk staff can assist patrons with retrieving materials. Access Services offers ADA equipment like ADA assistive calculators, large print calculators, magnifiers, C-Pen, Sensory kits, and translators. All the equipment offered at UNT Libraries enables patrons with a disability to work independently and UNT Libraries ensures that this equipment is well-maintained and upgraded promptly (Services for Persons with Disabilities, UNT Libraries, n.d.). Additionally, the adaptive Student Computer Lab in Sage Hall, Room 330 is specifically designed to meet the needs of patrons with disabilities. The following are some of the ADA-Compliant equipment offered at the UNT Libraries and their uses: 

• Topaz Desktop Magnifier: Topaz desktop magnifier is a powerful support for patrons with low vision. It magnifies text and pictures and has a setting that enables them to adjust contrast and brightness. 

• Perkin Brailler: The Perkins Brailler functions similarly to a typewriter, with the primary distinction being that it produces Braille text. It requires a special type of paper designed for Braille writing, conveniently located alongside the Brailler. This tool is specifically crafted to support individuals with visual impairments. 

• Large Print Keyboard & Calculator: This is a special keyboard and calculator designed for patrons with low vision, featuring letters printed in a larger size than normal. 

• ADA assistive calculator: This calculator is also known as a talking calculator. It narrates every step users take.  

• Magnifier: It is used to assist patrons with reading words difficult for them to read because of its size. When placed on top of the words, it magnifies and enlarges. 

• C-Pen: This innovative tool is designed for patrons with learning disabilities or low vision. When run over the text, it scans words and reads them back aloud. 

• Jaws software: A powerful software that is an invaluable ally for people with low vision and provides auditory access to digital content. In simple terms, it acts as a narrator for digital content. 

• Pocketalker: A powerful assistive listening device designed to assist users with communication through amplifying sound. 

ADA-compliant gaming equipment offered by the media library: 

• 3dRudder: the foot-powered motion controller: This controller enables patrons to play in VR using their feet, freeing up their hands.  

• 3D printed Nintendo Joy-CON adapter for one-handed gamers: A single-hand switch that enables users to play Nintendo using just one hand. 

• Access controller for PS5: An adaptive equipment designed for disabled patrons with a feature like swappable buttons to customize inputs that fit their needs.  

• StealthSwitch3 FS-2: This equipment lets users control computers using their feet. By stepping on a pedal on this equipment, users can operate computers. 

• Xbox Adaptive Controller: A controller designed for users with limited mobility. This controller enables the user to mount external buttons and switches. 

• AbleNet Big Red Twist Switch: A device designed for an individual with limited mobility. It’s a red button that controls computers and other tools by using minimal force. 

• Adaptive gaming kit: A powerful kit that has adjustable buttons that can be rearranged as needed. 

• Xbox wireless keyboard: A wireless keyboard that can be connected to Xbox series S/X or Xbox One S/X. 

(Source: Discover Catalog, UNT Libraries) 

Why is ADA-compliant equipment important? 

Libraries offer patrons various services, including accessible resources, technology access, study spaces, and recreational options like video games. The key aspect of libraries providing these services is to serve all community members and ensure all the resources are accessible to everyone, regardless of their disability. This inclusive approach allows patrons with a disability to feel included and empowers them to complete their tasks independently, positively affecting their mental health and well-being. 

As a fellow university student, we belong to a community that thrives on unity. No matter our background we treat everyone with respect and equality. When public spaces like libraries lack ADA-compliant equipment, it can alienate disabled patrons affecting their sense of belonging and well-being. According to the Hogan Assessment (2023), individuals who feel rejected by their groups are less likely to perform at their best and the absence of inclusion can significantly affect their well-being. By Prioritizing accessibility, we can create an inclusive learning environment to our disabled patrons and enhance their well-being. 

Similarly, ADA-compliant equipment is vital as it enables disabled patrons to work independently which can enhance their mental health. According to Warkshire County Council (2023) independence and mental health are interconnected and it promotes good mental health by enabling individuals to engage in activities that promote well-being and pursue goals. Offering ADA-compliant equipment has a direct positive impact on our disabled patron’s mental health, as it allows them to work independently on any task. Therefore, the importance of this equipment cannot be neglected. 

As a community, it is our fundamental duty to ensure all patrons, including those with disabilities, experience a sense of inclusiveness, and have their mental health enhanced by fostering independence in their work. Implementing ADA-compliant equipment is the first step toward achieving this goal. For more Information about ADA-compliant equipment, patrons may contact AskUs services via email or call 940-565-3245.

References

Discover Catalog, UNT Libraries, (n.d.). Self-Help Devices for People with Disabilities. UNT Libraries.https://discover.library.unt.edu/?f%5Bresource_type_facet%5D%5B%5D=equipment&f%5Bsubject_heading_facet%5D%5B%5D=self-help-devices-for-people-with-disabilities%21Self-help+devices+for+people+with+disabilities 

Hogan Assessments.  (2021, March 12). Inclusion and Belonging for Well-Being. Hogan Assessments.  https://www.hoganassessments.com/blog/inclusion-and-belonging-for-well-being/ 

Services for Persons with Disabilities. (n.d.) UNT Libraries. https://library.unt.edu/services/persons-with-disabilities/. 

U.S. Department of Justice. (n.d.).  Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) overview. ADA.gov. https://www.ada.gov/topics/intro-to-ada/ 

Warwickshire County Council. (2023, November 8). Supporting Your Independence and Mental Wellbeing. Warwickshire County Council. https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/news/article/3965/supporting-your-independence-and-mental-wellbeing