What's New at the UCC Library?

Recognizing Global Accessibility Awareness Day: Fostering Digital Inclusion

Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), held annually on the third Thursday in May, promotes digital access and inclusion for the over one billion people worldwide with disabilities. GAAD highlights the importance of creating equitable and innovative digital experiences for all users.

Inclusive Digital Resources

The UCC Library supports digital inclusion through tools and platforms designed with accessibility in mind:

• Niche Academy: offers a variety of instructional video tutorials, including Windows Basics, all featuring closed captioning to support users who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• Films on Demand: provides accessible educational videos such as a Yoga for Everybody video created with diverse user needs in mind.
• Gale One File: offers additional accessibility tools and features, helping all users interact with academic content in ways that work best for them.

These are just a few of the many resources available that reflect our ongoing effort to make digital learning environments more usable and effective for everyone.

Library Services that Support Accessibility

The UCC Library provides a comprehensive array of services to ensure that students, faculty, and staff with disabilities can fully engage with our resources and facilities. These include:

• Alternative Text Formats: Access to materials in large print, audio, or digital formats.
• Assistive Technologies: Availability of specialized software and devices to support users with visual, auditory, or physical disabilities.
• Private Study Spaces: Quiet areas that support focused, distraction-free learning, you can book online or at the desk.
• Adaptive Equipment: tools such as ergonomic keyboards, mobility aids, and other assistive devices.

These services are provided in partnership with the UCC Office for Accessibility Services, and students are encouraged to reach out early to explore how accommodations can enhance their academic experience.

Digital Accessibility and Universal Design

The UCC Library also leads initiatives to promote digital accessibility and universal design across campus. The Digital Accessibility Guide serves as a valuable resource for students, staff, and faculty. It includes:

• Best Practices for Accessible Content: guidelines for designing documents, websites, and multimedia that are inclusive and user friendly.
• Assistive Technology Information: a breakdown of tools that help individuals access and interact with digital content.
• Training and Educational Resources: Materials to help faculty and staff understand digital accessibility standards and integrate them into their work.

We encourage everyone to explore these tools and consider how accessible design benefits all users. By prioritizing accessibility, we contribute to a more inclusive, effective digital world. Help us on the road to accessibility.

We're inviting everyone to discover the incredible resources and opportunities available at the UCC Library by signing up for a library card. 

This year, we’re thrilled to have Optimus Prime from the TRANSFORMERS as our special ambassador, highlighting that there's more than meets the eye at the UCC Library. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills, find valuable information, or connect with fellow avid readers, a library card unlocks a world of possibilities.

Today’s libraries are vibrant community centers offering much more than just books.

Curious about exploring a new hobby or learning a new language? The UCC Library has the resources you need. Interested in starting or growing a small business? We can help!

Did you know that the UCC Library offers eBooks, eAudiobooks, and Streaming Media for college faculty, staff and students? Are you a faculty member - if so, did you know that all of these (and more!) can be embedded directly into your courses?

Getting a library card is easy and is an essential step toward academic success and lifelong learning for all.