Accessibility at the CMU Libraries
The CMU Libraries is dedicated to making its services and resources accessible to all users. On this page, you will find a summary of general accessibility information about our building, services, and website.
If you have questions or need help while you’re in the library, please ask at the Library Services Desk on the 2nd floor or the Information Desk on the 1st floor.
Please refer additional questions about accessibility to Lee Parker, Instruction and Outreach Librarian and Student Disability Services liaison, via email (parke6l@cmich.edu) or phone (989-774-2285).
Virtual tour of the Library
Tour the Park Library before you visit with our online Able Eyes Accessible Building Tour.
Parking and library building accessibility
Parking
Accessible parking spaces for the Park Library (#33 on the Campus Map) are available in Lot 27, located east of the library building, and Lot 18, located on the north side of Preston Street. Permits are required to park in these lots between 2:00 am and 5:00 pm on weekdays. Additional accessible parking spaces are available off Library Drive, located to the south of the building. Metered parking is available in Lot 10 along Franklin Street using the Pango pay by phone system. Further information on guest parking can be found on the CMU Parking Services Website.
A 15-minute parking space for dropping off and picking up passengers and library materials is located along Preston Street near the north entrance of the library.
Building entrances/exits
Accessible entry to the Park Library is available at both the north entrance (from Preston Street) and south entrance (facing Brooks Hall). A ramp is located at the north entrance while the south entrance is at ground level. After-hours access to the library is through the north entrance and requires a valid Central ID.
Elevators
Two elevators equipped with Braille and synthetic lettering are located in the center of the library and provide access to all four floors of the building.
Restrooms
Accessible restrooms are located on all floors of the library. CMU Libraries also has several single-occupant restrooms; one in the 1st floor Quiet Study area and two in the Clarke Historical Library. The restrooms in the Ponder Café space can be accessed after hours with a valid Central ID.
Drinking fountains
Accessible drinking fountains with water bottle fillers are available on all floors of the building.
Service animals
In accordance with university policy, the CMU Libraries welcomes service animals and service animals in training. For more information see the CMU Service Animal Guidelines and CMU Service Animal Policy.
Library spaces
Study spaces
Because individuals have different sensory and study needs, the library provides a variety of study spaces, including sensory-reduced study rooms and rooms with learning tools such as projectors and marker boards. Information on our different study spaces can be found on the Libraries' Study Spaces page.
Reserve a study space
Individual and group study rooms can be booked in advance of your visit. Find and book available study rooms through the Study Room Booking System.
Quality of Life rooms
The library has two Quality of Life rooms: Park 121B and Park 351. Information about these rooms can be found on our Quality of Life Rooms page. Information on other Quality of Life rooms across campus can be found on the Quality of Life Rooms on Campus list.
Library offices
Library offices are structured in a way that follows ADA standards and are accessible to those with physical disabilities. Virtual meetings are an option for those who cannot or would rather not meet in person.
Library services
Research help: Ask a Librarian
Librarians are available virtually and in person to assist with research. Visit our Ask a Librarian page for information about how to get help with your research. Whether you prefer to communicate in person, in writing, online, or by phone, our library has an option for you!
Library Services Desk
The Library Services Desk is located on the 2nd floor and serves as the main point for getting help and checking out materials. At the Library Services Desk, you can check out books as well as technology (such as headphones, laptops, and cameras. You can also get help using the library’s services and resources here.
Book/item retrieval
University Library
The library will retrieve print books and other items from the collections for individuals who need assistance. If you are in the building and need help, please contact the Library Services Desk on the 2nd floor. If you’d like materials pulled and waiting for you when you arrive, use our Contactless Book Pickup service.
Clarke Historical Library
Located on the 1st floor of the Park Library, the Clarke Historical Library’s collections are available in the Clarke Reading Room, and some materials are accessible online through the Clarke's website. Accommodation can be made for library users needing assistance. Email clarke@cmich.edu or call (989) 774-3864 to learn more.
Documents on Demand
Our Documents on Demand service allows users to borrow materials from other libraries. Physical materials will be made available at the Library Services Desk or, if you are a distance student, sent to your home address. More information about Documents on Demand can be found through the Documents on Demand web page.
Technology
Assistive technology
Library desktop computers are equipped with screen reading technology. Additionally, CMU’s Student Disability Services recommends free and low-cost assistive technology resources related to executive functioning, note taking, and speech to text. For specialized reading resources, the library has agreements in place which allow for the accessibility of Braille and Talking Books through the Braille and Talking Books Library of Michigan. For further information on these services, contact Lee Parker (parke6l@cmich.edu).
Printing/scanning
There are a variety of different printing and scanning options throughout the building. For help with printing or scanning, please visit the Library Services Desk on the 2nd floor.