Accessibility
Library Resources
Staff at service desks are available to assist patrons with searching for and retrieving hard-to-reach items in the stacks and fixing technology issues. If you are able to, please stop by one of the service desks to inquire about staff assistance. If you need assistance in order to gain entrance to the library and/or reach a service desk, please call ahead to determine a plan for assistance (785-843-3833). We are always happy to help.
The entrance to the library features automatic door openers.
There are two accessible parking spots outside the library’s entrance on Vermont Street and four accessible parking spots in the Vermont Street parking garage to the south of the library.
Lawrence Public Library has three accessible restrooms (Two on the main floor and one in the lower level). Restrooms near the library entrance and those on the lower level have power assist doors.
Our sound system in the auditorium is equipped with a hearing loop, which transmits sounds electromagnetically for those with assistive hearing devices.
Our facility is equipped with an elevator to provide access to the lower level.
Whether you love mysteries, westerns, or biographies, we’ve got a great selection of nonfiction and fiction in our large print collection (14+ point lettering).
Located near our Hello Desk, visitors can borrow our motorized scooter for up to 2 hours inside the library. Just ask for the key when you're ready to roll.
We also have a free charging station for wheelchairs and scooters in the lobby. Ask and we'll show you where it is.
LPL's public phone is located on the Lower Level and is free to use.
- Local and long distance calls available
- 15-minute time limit per call
- Use of the phone is first-come-first-served
Privacy
- We installed acoustic panels to help reduce noise a little, however conversations are not private
- Please be aware that conversations on public phones are not private.
- Be mindful when discussing sensitive information:
- Financial information (credit card/bank account numbers)
- Social security number
- Health information
- Personal information about yourself or others
The library has a limited number of small, wheeled shopping carts parked near the Welcome Desk for patrons who are unable to carry items while they browse. There are also hand-held baskets located in the atrium and tote bags available to purchase at the Accounts Desk for $1 each.
Manual wheelchair available upon request for use in library.
Community Resources
Kansas Talking Books provides personalized library support materials for any Kansas resident with a visual impairment, physical impairment or reading disability. For more information or to apply for services: http://kslib.info/153/Talking-Books, or call 800-362-0699 or 620-341-6280.
The Kansas Audio-Reader Network is a free reading and information service for blind, visually impaired, and print disabled individuals in Kansas and western Missouri. Newspapers, magazines and best-selling books are read on the air and on the internet, 24 hours a day. Applications are available at reader.ku.edu, or by calling 785-864-4600.
Independence, Inc. is a nonprofit resource center for people with disabilities in Lawrence that offers a variety of services and programs including: advocacy, independent living skills training, referrals, peer support, an equipment loan bank, financial management services, a Youth Employment Program, an Assistive Technology Grant Program, and the Kansas Telecommunications Access Program.
They also have a Computer Learning Center with eleven computers featuring a variety of assistive technology, including screen readers for Windows, screen magnification, voice input, alternative keyboards, trackballs, keyboard modification software, scanners, and a Braille printer. For a full list of services, you can check out their website or give them a call at 785-841-0333.
For communications between TTY users and hearing persons. Answered 24 hours. Telecommunications Relay Services: Dial 711 for Voice/TDD/TTY Dial 711 or 1-800-766-3777
When using Relay Kansas from a pay phone, local calls will be free of charge. Calling cards may be used for toll and long-distance calls, and the call will cost no more than if you used coins. Collect calls may be placed by providing the Communications Assistant your name and the area code and telephone number you wish to call.
The Arc of Douglas County works in Douglas, Jefferson, and Franklin counties in Kansas to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Their services include targeted case management and service coordination, IEP support for students, independent living counseling, advocacy and training, and more. For more information, visit thearcdcks.org or call (785) 749-0121.
ATK connects people with disabilities and health conditions of all ages with the assistive technology they need to learn, work, play and participate in community life safely and independently. For more information, visit their website at https://atk.ku.edu/, opens a new window or call 800-KAN DO IT (800-526-3648).