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Abdus Salam Library

South Kensington Campus, London, SW7 2AZ

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Access Guide

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Introduction

  • Services / facilities within the building include a library and café.

Rooms and Spaces Links

Getting Here

  • By Road View
    • The South Kensington Campus is located on Exhibition Road just off the A4 (Cromwell Road) in Knightsbridge in central London.
    • There is limited parking at the South Kensington Campus. The main campus parking is located on Imperial College Road. There are multiple Blue Badge bays all parking is limited to permit holders only.
  • By Bus View
    • The nearest bus stop to the South Kensington Campus on Exhibition Road is the South Kensington Museums (Stop K) Stop. This bus stop is served by the 360 bus route. There is an additional bus stop on the other side of the campus on Queen's Gate called the Imperial College Elvaston Pl Stop (Stop RV) and is served by bus route 70.
  • By Train View
    • The nearest train station to the South Kensington Campus is the West Brompton Station. This station is approximately 2.3km via the A3218. This station is operated by the Overground and Southern services.
  • By Underground View
    • The nearest underground station to the South Kensington Campus is the South Kensington Underground Station. This station is approximately 550m via Exhibition Road and is operated by the Piccadilly, Circle and District lines.
  • Useful Links View

Useful Information

Site/Campus Car Park (Imperial College Road)

  • Car Park View
    • The car park is located along Imperial College Road.
    • The nearest building(s) to this car park is/are Chemistry, Sir Alexander Fleming, Library, Skempton.
    • The car park type is open air/surface.
    • The car park does not have a height restriction barrier.
    • The car park surface is tarmac and block paving.
    • Designated Blue Badge parking bays are available.
    • The Blue Badge bay(s) is/are clearly marked.
    • There is/are 10 designated Blue Badge parking bay(s) within this car park.
    • The dimensions of the designated parking bay(s) are 270cm x 500cm (8ft 10in x 16ft 5in).
    • The dimensions of the designated bays do vary in size.
  • Charges and Restrictions View
    • This car park can be used by visitors, anybody and staff permit holders.
    • Parking charges apply for non permit holders.
    • Signs are provided to give information on parking charges/restrictions.
    • Signs are clearly presented.
    • There is not a payment machine at a convenient height for wheelchair users.
    • There is not a level turning space (minimum 185cm x 210cm) in front of the payment machine(s).
    • Payment cannot be made by phone.
  • Drop Off Point View
    • There is not a designated drop off point in this car park.

Building Parking

  • The building does have its own dedicated parking.
  • Building Car Park View
    • The car park can be used by staff and permit holders.
    • There are no parking charges that apply on the day.
    • The car park is located to the rear of the venue.
    • The car park type is open air/surface.
    • The car park does not have a height restriction barrier.
    • Designated Blue Badge parking bays are not available.
    • The dimensions of the designated bays do not vary in size.
    • 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 uneven surfaces.
    • The dropped kerb between the car park and the building does not have tactile paving.
    • The car park surface is tarmac.
  • Site/Campus Car Parks View
    • There is a site/campus car park for staff, students and visitors within approximately 200m.
    • The name of the car park is main car park.
    • The car park is located along Imperial College Road.
  • Public Car Parks View
    • There is not a car park for public use within 200m (approx).
  • On Street Parking View
    • Clearly signed and/or standard marked parking bays are not available.
  • Drop Off Point View
    • There is not a designated drop off point.
    • The drop off point is located to the left of the Blue Badge bays.

Outside Access (Main Entrance)

  • Entrance View
    • This information is for the entrance located at the front of the building.
    • There is step free access at this entrance.
    • There is not a bell/buzzer.
    • There is not an intercom.
    • There is not 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 127cm (4ft 2in).
  • Second Set of Doors View
    • There is a second set of doors.
    • The door(s) open(s) automatically.
    • The door(s) is / are double.
    • The width of the door opening is 166cm (5ft 5in).

Outside Access (Cafe)

  • Entrance View
    • This information is for the entrance located at the front of the building.
    • There is step free access at this entrance.
    • There is not a bell/buzzer.
    • There is not an intercom.
    • There is not a canopy or recess which provides weather protection at this entrance.
    • The main door(s) open(s) by sliding.
    • The door(s) is / are single.
    • The door(s) is / are permanently held open (at the time of the survey).
    • The width of the door opening is 77cm (2ft 6in).
    • 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) away from you (push).
    • The door(s) is / are double (with one leaf locked).
    • The door(s) is / are permanently held open (at the time of the survey).
    • The width of the door opening is 82cm (2ft 8in).

Eating and Drinking (Cafe)

  • The following information is for the café.
  • Full table service is not available.
  • Food or drinks are ordered from the service counter.
  • Food or drinks cannot be brought to the table.
  • Some tables are permanently fixed.
  • Some chairs are permanently fixed.
  • No chairs have armrests.
  • The nearest table is 13m (14yd 8in) from the café entrance.
  • The distance between the floor and the lowest table is 70cm (2ft 4in).
  • The distance between the floor and the highest table is 97cm (3ft 2in).
  • The standard height for tables is 70cm.
  • There is ample room for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre.
  • Plastic / takeaway cups are available.
  • Plastic / takeaway cutlery is not available.
  • Drinking straws are not available.
  • Menus are wall only.
  • Menus are not available in Braille.
  • Menus are not available in large print.
  • Picture menus are not available.
  • Menus are clearly written.
  • Menus are presented in contrasting colours.
  • The type of food served here is hot and cold snacks.

Getting Around

  • Access View
    • There is step free access throughout the building via lift(s).
    • There is/are 6 clearly marked step(s), with handrails on both sides, for access to the reception from the foyer.
    • The step(s) is/are medium height (11cm - 17cm).
    • There is a platform lift which overcomes the steps.
    • The steps can be seen in photograph 1.
    • There is a slight ramp, with no handrails, for access to the Research Study Space to the rear of the Library on the ground floor.
    • The slope can be seen in photograph 2. There are double automatic doors to access this area at the top of the ramp which can be seen in photograph 3.
    • There is a slight ramp, with handrails on both sides, for access to Wolfson Study Space.
    • The slope can be seen in photograph 4. There are double automatic doors to access this area at the top of the ramp which can be seen in photograph 5.
    • There are doors in corridors which have to be opened manually.
  • 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 some flooring in corridors which is shiny and could cause issues with glare or look slippery to some people.
    • 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 fixed loop.
    • The hearing loop is located at the information hub reception desk.
    • Staff are trained to use the hearing assistance system.

Lift (Platform Lift)

  • There is a lift for public use.
  • The lift is located in the foyer.
  • The lift is a platform lift.
  • Wall mounted information boards are not provided at lift landings.
  • The platform lift accesses a small level change.
  • The weight limit for the lift is 400kg.
  • The lift is approximately 7m (7yd 1ft) from the main entrance.
  • Staff do not need to be notified for use of the lift.
  • The clear door width is 101cm (3ft 4in).
  • The dimensions of the lift are 106cm x 140cm (3ft 6in x 4ft 7in).
  • There are separate entry and exit doors in the lift.
  • There is not 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 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 medium.

Reception (Main Reception)

  • Welcome Reception is located ahead of the main entrance.
  • The desk is 8m (8yd 2ft) from the platform lift.
  • 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 medium.
  • The reception desk/counter is low (76cm or lower).
  • 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 assistance system is not signed.
  • Staff are trained to use the hearing system.

Reception (Information Hub)

  • Information Hub is located beyond the library entrance.
  • The desk is 3m (3yd 10in) 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 medium.
  • The reception desk/counter is low (76cm or lower).
  • There is 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 fixed loop.
  • The hearing assistance system is signed.
  • Staff are trained to use the hearing system.

Entrance (Library)

  • Entrance View
    • This information is for the entrance located to the right of the main entrance.
    • There is step free 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 75cm (2ft 6in).
    • The main door(s) open(s) automatically.
    • The door(s) is / are single.
    • The width of the door opening is 90cm (2ft 11in).
  • Second Set of Doors View
    • There is a second set of doors.
    • The main door(s) open(s) automatically.
    • The door(s) is / are single.
    • The width of the door opening is 54cm (1ft 9in).

Other Floors

  • Steps View
    • The floors which are accessible by stairs are 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.
    • The stairs are located opposite the lift.
    • The stairs are approximately 21m from the library entrance.
    • There are 15+ steps between floors.
    • There are manual, heavy, double doors to access the stairwell from the first floor upwards.
    • The lighting levels are medium.
    • The steps are clearly marked.
    • The steps are medium height (11cm - 17cm).
    • The steps do have handrails.
    • The steps have a handrail on both sides.
    • There is a landing.
    • There is an additional staircase with similar features to the rear of the building. (photograph 3).

Lift

  • There is a lift for public use.
  • The lift is located ahead of the reception.
  • The lift is a standard lift.
  • The floors which are accessible by this lift are 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.
  • Wall mounted information boards are provided at lift landings.
  • The weight limit for the lift is 1200kg.
  • The lift is approximately 16m (17yd 1ft) from the library entrance.
  • Staff do not need to be notified for use of the lift.
  • The clear door width is 80cm (2ft 7in).
  • The dimensions of the lift are 107cm x 127cm (3ft 6in x 4ft 2in).
  • There are not 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 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 medium.

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 7-14 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.
  • Equipment available for people with a visual impairment includes larger monitors .
  • Comments View
    • Height adjustable tables are available on levels 2 and 3.
    • There are coffee tables available on the second floor.

Entrance (Library Staff Offices to Sherfield)

  • Entrance View
    • This information is for the entrance located at the rear of the library staff offices.
    • There is step free access at this entrance.
    • There is not a bell/buzzer.
    • There is not an intercom.
    • The main door(s) open(s) automatically (away from you).
    • The automatic door(s) is / are push pad activated.
    • The door(s) is / are single.
    • The width of the door opening is 77cm (2ft 6in).
  • Second Set of Doors View
    • There is a second set of doors.
    • The main door(s) open(s) automatically (away from you).
    • The automatic door(s) is / are push pad activated.
    • The door(s) is / are double.
    • The width of the door opening is 118cm (3ft 10in).

Accessible Toilet (Right Transfer Level 1)

  • Accessible toilet facilities are available.
  • Location and Access View
    • There is pictorial signage on or near the toilet door.
    • This accessible toilet is approximately 7m (7yd 1ft) from the lift.
    • This accessible toilet is located on the first floor to the left of the lift.
    • There is level access to this accessible toilet.
  • Features and Dimensions View
    • This is a shared toilet.
    • A key is not required for the accessible toilet.
    • The door opens inwards.
    • The door is locked by a locking handle.
    • The width of the accessible toilet door is 94cm (3ft 1in).
    • The door may be difficult to open.
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 175cm x 300cm (5ft 9in x 9ft 10in).
    • 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 106cm (3ft 6in).
    • 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 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 not placed at a lower level or at an angle for ease of use.
    • The height of the toilet seat above floor level is 42cm (1ft 5in).
    • 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 not a towel dispenser.
    • There is a toilet roll holder.
    • The toilet roll holder can be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The toilet roll holder is placed higher than 100cm (3ft 3in).
    • The height of the toilet roll holder is 103cm (3ft 5in).
    • 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 104cm.
  • 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 moderate to good.

Accessible Toilet (Right Transfer Library Staff Office - Level 2)

  • Accessible toilet facilities are available.
  • Location and Access View
    • There is pictorial signage on or near the toilet door.
    • This accessible toilet is approximately 23m (25yd 6in) from the lift.
    • This accessible toilet is located on the second floor in the library staff offices.
    • There is level access to this accessible toilet.
  • 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 94cm (3ft 1in).
    • The door may be difficult to open.
    • The dimensions of the accessible toilet are 147cm x 208cm (4ft 10in x 6ft 10in).
    • 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 right.
    • The lateral transfer space is 78cm (2ft 7in).
    • There is a dropdown rail on the transfer side.
    • There is a flush on the transfer side.
    • The tap type is twist/turn.
    • 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 a/are coat hook(s).
    • There are coat hooks in the toilet at 104cm and 154cm 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 not a hand dryer.
    • There is a towel dispenser.
    • The towel dispenser cannot 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 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 cannot be reached from seated on the toilet.
    • The height of the soap dispenser is 89cm.
  • 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 poor.
    • 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 poor.
    • The contrast between the walls and floor is good.
    • The lighting levels are moderate to good.

Accessible Toilet (Cafe)

  • Accessible toilet facilities are available.
  • Location and Access View
    • There is pictorial signage on or near the toilet door.
    • This accessible toilet is approximately 16m (17yd 1ft) from the café entrance.
    • This accessible toilet is located to the left of the service counter.
    • There is level access to this accessible toilet.
  • Features and Dimensions View
    • This is a shared toilet.
  • Comments View
    • At the time of the survey the toilet was under maintenance.

Standard Toilet(s)

  • Location of Standard Toilet(s) View
    • There are male and female standard toilets facilities on the first floor, the second floor, the third floor, the fourth floor and the fifth floor.
  • Standard Toilet Surveyed View
    • A male standard toilet was surveyed.
    • The toilet surveyed is located on the first floor to the left of 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 10m from the lift.
    • There is not a/are not cubicle(s) suitable for ambulant disabled people in the standard toilet(s) surveyed.
    • Lighting levels in the standard toilet surveyed are good.