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Hugh Owen Library

Aberystwyth University, Hugh Owen Library, Penglais Campus, Aberystwyth, SY23 3DZ

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Access Guide

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Introduction

Getting Here

Useful Information

Building Parking (Floor E)

  • The building does have its own dedicated parking.
  • Building Car Park View
    • The car park can be used by staff, permit holders and Blue Badge holders.
    • There are no parking charges that apply on the day.
    • The car park is located to the rear of the building near the Floor E entrance.
    • The car park type is open air/surface.
    • The car park does not have a height restriction barrier.
    • Designated Blue Badge parking bays are available.
    • There is/are 3 designated parking bay(s) within the car park.
    • The Blue Badge bay(s) is/are signposted and have markings which are faded.
    • The dimensions of the designated parking bay(s) are 360cm x 380cm (11ft 10in x 12ft 6in).
    • The dimensions of the designated bays do vary in size.
    • Parking spaces for Blue Badge holders do not need to be booked in advance.
    • The nearest designated bay is 32m (34yd 2ft) from the Floor E entrance.
    • The route from the car park to the building is accessible to a wheelchair user with assistance.
    • Assistance may be required because there is / are slopes/ramps.
    • The dropped kerb between the car park and the building does have tactile paving.
    • The car park surface is tarmac.
  • Drop Off Point View
    • There is not a designated drop off point.

Outside Access (Floor E)

  • Entrance View
    • This information is for the entrance located at the rear of the Library Floor E.
    • There is ramped/sloped or stepped access at this entrance.
    • There is not a bell/buzzer.
    • There is not an intercom.
    • A key card is required for access at this entrance.
    • The height of the card reader/lock is 120cm (3ft 11in).
    • There is a canopy or recess which provides weather protection at this entrance.
    • The main door(s) open(s) automatically.
    • The door(s) is / are double.
    • The width of the door opening is 160cm (5ft 3in).
    • There is a small lip on the threshold of the entrance, with a height of 2cm or below.
  • Second Set of Doors View
    • There is a second set of doors.
    • The door(s) open(s) automatically (away from you).
    • The door(s) is / are double.
    • The width of the door opening is 150cm (4ft 11in).
    • There is a small lip on the threshold of the entrance, with a height of 2cm or below.
  • Ramp/Slope View
    • There is a ramp/slope at this entrance.
    • The ramp/slope is located on the pathway leading to entrance.
    • The ramp/slope is located to the left as you face the entrance.
    • The ramp or slope does bypass the step(s).
    • The ramp/slope gradient is slight.
    • The ramp is permanent.
    • There is a level landing at the top of the ramp.
    • The ramp does have handrails.
    • The handrails are on the right going up the ramp.
    • The width of the ramp is 105cm (3ft 5in).
  • Step(s) View
    • There is a / are step(s) at this entrance.
    • The step(s) is / are located to the left as you face the entrance.
    • There is / are 7 step(s) to access the entrance.
    • There is not tactile paving at the top and bottom of the step(s).
    • The step(s) is / are not clearly marked.
    • The step(s) is / are medium (11cm - 17cm).
    • The steps do have handrails.
    • The handrails are on both sides.
  • Comments View
    • The first set of doors open into a foyer.
    • A key card is only required for access into the library via the second set of doors.
    • Beyond the second set of doors is a security barrier.
    • The barrier is 100cm wide.
    • This is shown in the last photograph 11.

Outside Access (Arts Piazza Entrance)

  • Entrance View
    • This information is for the entrance located off the Arts Piazza at the front of the building.
    • There is ramped/sloped or stepped access at this entrance.
    • There is not a bell/buzzer.
    • There is not an intercom.
    • There is a canopy or recess which provides weather protection at this entrance.
    • The main door(s) open(s) automatically (away from you).
    • The door(s) is / are double.
    • The width of the door opening is 160cm (5ft 3in).
    • There is a small lip on the threshold of the entrance, with a height of 2cm or below.
  • Second Set of Doors View
    • There is a second set of doors.
    • The door(s) open(s) automatically (away from you).
    • The door(s) is / are double.
    • The width of the door opening is 165cm (5ft 5in).
  • Ramp/Slope View
    • There is a ramp/slope at this entrance.
    • The ramp/slope is located to the left as you face the entrance.
    • The ramp/slope does bypass the step(s).
    • The ramp/slope gradient is slight.
    • The ramp is permanent.
    • There is not a level landing at the top of the ramp.
    • The ramp does have handrails.
    • The handrails are on both sides.
    • The width of the ramp is 122cm (4ft).
  • Step(s) View
    • There is a / are step(s) at this entrance.
    • The step(s) is / are located in front of the entrance.
    • There is / are 5 step(s) to access the entrance.
    • There is not tactile paving at the top and bottom of the step(s).
    • The step(s) is / are clearly marked.
    • The step(s) is / are medium height (11cm - 17cm).
    • The steps do have handrails.
    • The handrails are on both sides.
  • Comments View
    • A UCard is required between the hours of 10:00pm to 8:00am and all day during exam periods.
    • The card reader is 105cm
    • There are security barriers beyond the second entrance doors with a width of 100cm.

Reception

  • Library Reception is located to the right as you enter.
  • The desk is 12m (13yd 4in) from the library entrance.
  • The reception area is clearly visible from the entrance.
  • There is step free access to this reception area.
  • The lighting levels in the reception area are bright.
  • The reception desk/counter is medium height (77cm - 109cm).
  • There is a low section of the counter (76cm or below) available.
  • There is not a clear knee recess beneath the low/lowered counter.
  • The desk is staffed.
  • There is a hearing assistance system.
  • The type of system is a portable loop.
  • The hearing system is available only on request.
  • The hearing assistance system is signed.
  • Staff are trained to use the hearing system.

Reception (Floor F)

  • The enquires desk is located to the right when exiting lift.
  • The desk is 4m (4yd 1ft) from the lift entrance Floor F.
  • The reception area is clearly visible from the entrance.
  • There is step free access to this reception area, via lift.
  • The lighting levels in the reception area are bright.
  • The reception desk/counter is low (76cm or lower).
  • There is not a clear knee recess beneath the low/lowered counter.
  • The desk is not staffed.
  • There is not a bell to attract attention.
  • There is a hearing assistance system.
  • The type of system is a portable loop.
  • The hearing system is available only on request.
  • The hearing assistance system is not signed.
  • Staff are trained to use the hearing system.

Getting Around

  • Access View
    • There is step free access throughout the building via lift(s).
  • Getting Around View
    • There is clear signage for building facilities/areas in the foyer/reception area.
    • There is clearly written and pictorial directional signage at key points of circulation routes.
    • There is good colour contrast between the walls and floor in all areas.
    • The lighting levels are good.
    • This building does not play background music.
    • There is a hearing assistance system.
    • The system is a portable loop.
    • The loop is available from the reception.
    • Staff are trained to use the hearing system.

Library

  • This library does not have a regular supply of books in Braille.
  • This library does not have a regular supply of books in large print.
  • This library does not have a regular supply of books in audio format.
  • There is an ordering service.
  • It takes approximately 7 days to process an order.
  • The library does have computers with accessible software.
  • Auxiliary aids are available for computer users.
  • A height adjustable table and height adjustable chair is / are available.
  • Comments View
    • There is a automatic book return touch screen terminal.
    • Additionally, Read and write Gold Software and Inspiration computer software is also available.

Lift (Evacuation Lift)

  • There is a lift for public use.
  • The lift is located beyond entrance C, to the right along the corridor.
  • The lift is a standard lift.
  • The floors which are accessible by this lift are B, C, D and E.
  • Wall mounted information boards are provided at lift landings.
  • There are manual, single doors which are easy to open to access the lift lobby on all floors.
  • The weight limit for the lift is 630kgs.
  • The lift is approximately 33m (36yd 3in) from the floor C entrance.
  • Staff do not need to be notified for use of the lift.
  • The clear door width is 90cm (2ft 11in).
  • The dimensions of the lift are 110cm x 140cm (3ft 7in x 4ft 7in).
  • There are separate entry and exit doors in the lift.
  • There is a mirror to aid reversing out of the lift.
  • The lift does have a visual floor indicator.
  • The lift does have an audible announcer.
  • The lift has a hearing enhancement system.
  • The lift does have Braille markings.
  • The lift does have tactile markings.
  • The controls for the lift are within 90cm - 120cm from the floor.
  • The lighting level in the lift is good.

Lift

  • There is a lift for public use.
  • The lift is located to the rear of the building.
  • The lift is a standard lift.
  • The floors which are accessible by this lift are D, E and F.
  • Wall mounted information boards are provided at lift landings.
  • The weight limit for the lift is 630kg.
  • The lift is approximately 54m (59yd 2in) from the library entrance off the piazza.
  • Staff do not need to be notified for use of the lift.
  • The clear door width is 90cm (2ft 11in).
  • The dimensions of the lift are 107cm x 142cm (3ft 6in x 4ft 8in).
  • There are separate entry and exit doors in the lift.
  • There is a mirror to aid reversing out of the lift.
  • The lift does have a visual floor indicator.
  • The lift does have an audible announcer.
  • The lift does not have a hearing loop system.
  • The lift does not have Braille markings.
  • The lift does have tactile markings.
  • The controls for the lift are within 90cm - 120cm from the floor.
  • The lighting level in the lift is bright.

Other Floors

  • Steps View
    • The floors which are accessible by stairs are D, E and F.
    • The stairs are located at the rear of the building.
    • The stairs are approximately 58m from the library piazza entrance.
    • There are 15+ steps between floors.
    • There are manual, heavy, double doors to access the stairwell on all floors.
    • The lighting levels are bright.
    • The steps are clearly marked.
    • The steps are medium (11cm - 17cm).
    • The steps do have handrails.
    • The steps have a handrail on both sides.
    • There is a landing.
  • Comments View
    • The doors are generally held open.

Accessible Toilet (Library)

  • Accessible toilet facilities are available.
  • Location and Access View
    • The toilet is not for the sole use of disabled people.
    • There is pictorial signage on or near the toilet door.
    • This accessible toilet is approximately 54m (59yd 2in) from the library piazza entrance.
    • The accessible toilet is located at the rear of the building.
    • There is level access to this accessible toilet.
  • Features and Dimensions View
    • This is a unisex toilet.
    • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
    • The door opens outwards.
    • The door is locked by a twist lock.
    • The width of the accessible toilet door is 112cm (3ft 8in).
    • The door is heavy.
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 150cm x 220cm (4ft 11in x 7ft 3in).
    • There is a clear 150cm x 150cm manoeuvring space in the accessible toilet.
    • There is a lateral transfer space.
    • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on the right.
    • The lateral transfer space is 83cm (2ft 9in).
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • There is a flush on the transfer side.
    • The tap type is lever.
    • There is a mixer tap.
    • There is an emergency pull cord alarm in the cubicle.
    • The emergency pull cord alarm is fully functional.
    • Disposal facilities are available in the cubicle.
    • There is a/are female sanitary and open waste paper bin disposal units.
    • There is a/are coat hook(s).
    • The height of the coat hook is 181cm from the floor.
  • Position of Fixtures View
    • Wall mounted grab rails are available for the toilet.
    • As you face the toilet the wall-mounted grab rails are on both sides.
    • There is not a shelf within the accessible toilet.
    • There is a mirror.
    • Mirrors are placed at a lower level or at an angle for ease of use.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 48cm (1ft 7in).
    • There is a hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The hand dryer is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • There is a towel dispenser.
    • The towel dispenser cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The towel dispenser is placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • The height of the towel dispenser is 104cm (3ft 5in).
    • There is a toilet roll holder.
    • The toilet roll holder can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The toilet roll holder is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • There is a wash basin.
    • The wash basin can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The wash basin is not placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
    • There is a soap dispenser.
    • The soap dispenser can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The height of the soap dispenser is 100cm.
  • Colour Contrast and Lighting View
    • There is a high colour contrast between the internal door and wall.
    • The contrast between the external door and wall is good.
    • The contrast between the wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is good.
    • There is a good colour contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall.
    • The toilet seat colour contrast is poor.
    • The contrast between the walls and floor is good.
    • The lighting levels are bright.

Accessible Toilet (Floor F Male Standard Toilets)

  • Accessible toilet facilities are available.
  • Location and Access View
    • The toilet is not for the sole use of disabled people.
    • There is written text signage on or near the toilet door.
    • This accessible toilet is approximately 16m (17yd 1ft) from the lift entrance Floor F.
    • This accessible toilet is located to the right when exiting the lift on Floor F.
    • There is an identical toilet in the female standard toilets with a transfer space to the right. These can be seen in photographs 3 and 4.
    • There is level access to this accessible toilet.
    • This is by lift.
  • Features and Dimensions View
    • This is not a unisex toilet.
    • There is an identical toilet in the female toilets.
    • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
    • The door opens outwards.
    • The door is locked by a sliding bolt.
    • The width of the accessible toilet door is 78cm (2ft 7in).
    • The door is light.
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 138cm x 184cm (4ft 6in x 6ft).
    • There is not a clear 150cm x 150cm manoeuvring space in the accessible toilet.
    • There is a lateral transfer space.
    • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on the left.
    • The lateral transfer space is 72cm (2ft 4in).
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • There is a flush on the transfer side.
    • The tap type is lever.
    • There is a mixer tap.
    • There is an emergency pull cord alarm in the cubicle.
    • The emergency pull cord alarm is fully functional.
    • Disposal facilities are not available in the cubicle.
    • There is not a/are not coat hook(s).
  • Position of Fixtures View
    • Wall mounted grab rails are available for the toilet.
    • As you face the toilet the wall-mounted grab rails are on both sides.
    • There is not a shelf within the accessible toilet.
    • There is not a mirror.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 47cm (1ft 7in).
    • There is not a hand dryer.
    • There is a towel dispenser.
    • The towel dispenser can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The towel dispenser is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • There is a toilet roll holder.
    • The toilet roll holder cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The toilet roll holder is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • There is a wash basin.
    • The wash basin can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The wash basin is not placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
    • There is a soap dispenser.
    • The soap dispenser cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The height of the soap dispenser is 103cm.
  • Colour Contrast and Lighting View
    • There is a high colour contrast between the internal door and wall.
    • The contrast between the external door and wall is good.
    • The contrast between the wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is poor.
    • There is a poor colour contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall.
    • The toilet seat colour contrast is good.
    • The contrast between the walls and floor is good.
    • The lighting levels are bright.

Accessible Toilet (Floor E)

  • Accessible toilet facilities are available.
  • Location and Access View
    • The toilet is not for the sole use of disabled people.
    • There is pictorial signage on or near the toilet door.
    • This accessible toilet is approximately 27m (29yd 1ft) from the lift.
    • This accessible toilet is located to the left when exiting the lift on Floor E.
    • There is level access to this accessible toilet.
    • This is by lift.
  • Features and Dimensions View
    • This is a shared toilet.
    • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
    • The door opens outwards.
    • The door is locked by a twist lock.
    • The width of the accessible toilet door is 87cm (2ft 10in).
    • The door is heavy.
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 240cm x 200cm (7ft 10in x 6ft 7in).
    • There is a clear 150cm x 150cm manoeuvring space in the accessible toilet.
    • There is a lateral transfer space.
    • As you face the toilet pan the transfer space is on both sides.
    • The lateral transfer space on the left is 80cm.
    • The lateral transfer space on the right is 101cm.
    • There are dropdown rails on both sides of the toilet.
    • There is a flush on the transfer side.
    • The tap type is lever.
    • There is a mixer tap.
    • There is an emergency pull cord alarm in the cubicle.
    • The emergency pull cord alarm is not fully functional.
    • The alarm was out of reach (higher than 10cm (4") from floor) when surveyed.
    • Disposal facilities are available in the cubicle.
    • There is a/are female sanitary and open waste paper bin disposal units.
    • There is not a/are not coat hook(s).
  • Position of Fixtures View
    • Wall mounted grab rails are available for the toilet.
    • As you face the toilet the wall-mounted grab rails are on both sides.
    • There is not a shelf within the accessible toilet.
    • There is a mirror.
    • Mirrors are placed at a lower level or at an angle for ease of use.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 48cm (1ft 7in).
    • There is a hand dryer.
    • The hand dryer cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The hand dryer is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • There is a towel dispenser.
    • The towel dispenser cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The towel dispenser is placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • The height of the towel dispenser is 104cm (3ft 5in).
    • There is a toilet roll holder.
    • The toilet roll holder can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The toilet roll holder is not placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • There is a wash basin.
    • The wash basin cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The wash basin is not placed higher than 74cm (2ft 5in).
    • There is a soap dispenser.
    • The soap dispenser can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The height of the soap dispenser is 107cm.
  • Colour Contrast and Lighting View
    • There is a high colour contrast between the internal door and wall.
    • The contrast between the external door and wall is good.
    • The contrast between the wall-mounted grab rail(s) and wall is good.
    • There is a good colour contrast between the dropdown rail(s) and wall.
    • The toilet seat colour contrast is poor.
    • The contrast between the walls and floor is good.
    • The lighting levels are bright.

Standard Toilet(s)

  • There are male and female toilets located on Floors E and F.
  • There are shared toilets located on Floor D.
  • Standard Toilet Surveyed View
    • A male standard toilet was surveyed.
    • The toilet surveyed is located on Floor E on exiting the lift.
    • There is a female standard toilet in the same location.
    • There is step free access to the standard toilet(s) surveyed from the entrance.
    • The standard toilet surveyed is approximately 27m from the lift entrance.
    • There is a/are cubicle(s) suitable for ambulant disabled people in the standard toilet(s) surveyed.
    • There is a horizontal grab rail to the left of the seat.
    • Lighting levels in the standard toilet surveyed are good.
  • Comments View
    • Photographs 3 and 4 show the female toilets.