Disability resources: Print disabilities

About the Library’s online resources

The Library seeks to make its online catalog, UC Library Search, as accessible as possible for those who rely on screen readers for audio output. Many of the online resources provided by the Library are operated by other entities that the Library does not control.

If you encounter problems when using the Library’s online resources that are due to incompatibility with assistive technology, please report your experience by email to Vaughn Egge, Library Disability Liaison.

Finding digital versions of books in catalogs and databases

Many of the Library’s materials already exist in an electronic version. The following resources may be checked to see if there is already an existing electronic copy of the materials you seek.

DSP will scan assigned readings for class

The Disabled Students’ Program (DSP) is responsible for creating fully edited versions of required course materials, including textbooks, in your preferred format. The Library does not scan materials required for courses.

Converting online documents into an accessible format

SensusAccess is a self-service solution that automates the conversion of documents into a range of alternative formats, including MP3, e-books, Braille, and Daisy. The service can also be used to convert otherwise inaccessible documents such as image-only PDF files, scanned images, lecture notes, or other educational material into more accessible formats.

SensusAccess is open to all staff, students, or faculty with an @berkeley.edu email address and is meant to complement the accessibility services offered by the DSP Alt-Media Center and the Library.

Self-scanning for free

  • Use BookScan scanners in the libraries to convert print into a digital format.
  • Download scans onto a personal USB flash drive.
  • Scanners with JAWS software may be found at the Alternative Media Center. DSP can provide instruction on how to use scanners with audio output.
  • Rare materials may not be eligible for scanning. Students may arrange with their DSP Specialist for a personal reader or other appropriate accommodation.
  • Microform scanners are available in the following libraries: 
    • Bancroft
    • Bioscience, Natural Resources & Public Health
    • Doe
    • Earth Sciences & Map
    • East Asian
    • Moffitt
    • Music
    • Newspapers & Microforms

The Library will scan print materials from collections

For eligible users, the Library will scan materials owned by our Library or borrowed from other libraries that are needed for research. The Library does not scan required course materials.

Read more information about the procedures for requesting scanning of Library print materials.