Accessibility FAQs

Will scans of physical content provided by the Rutgers University Libraries be compliant with accessibility standards?

Examples include Digitization Requests, Interlibrary Loan Requests, etc.  

RUL is making every effort to ensure that the scans we create of our physical material meet accessibility standards. Alt Text will need to be reviewed by instructors to ensure that it is appropriate for the desired experience in that course.  

Will scans of physical content provided via Interlibrary Loan be compliant with accessibility standards?

RUL is making every effort to ensure that the partners we borrow from meet accessibility standards, but we cannot guarantee the resource will be compliant. As a reminder, ILL content is for individual use only and is not to be utilized in courses. If you need material for a course, please fill out the course reserve form.

Are PDFs downloaded from library websites or Quicksearch compliant with accessibility standards?

Examples include articles downloaded directly from content publishers, or from the institutional repository.  

The libraries do not recommend using downloaded PDFs in course reading lists as their compliance will differ depending on the vendor or provider. Instead, we highly recommend that you always link directly to the assigned article or chapter in lieu of providing a PDF copy. This will ensure that the user can interact with the content in its native format. The native format provides the user with the most flexibility when utilizing accessibility tools or services.  

Should I include citations or uploads in my Canvas course or utilize the reading list tool?

We strongly encourage you to always use the Reading List tool as it provides many benefits to instructors, students, and the library. 

Benefits for Instructors

  • All course materials in one place: Instructors can easily build organized reading lists that pull together articles, ebooks, videos, websites, and more into a single list within their course.
  • Streamlined workflow: Drag‑and‑drop tools, easy list editing, reusable templates, and the ability to update lists throughout the semester save significant time.
  • Better use of library resources: The Reading List Tool integrates with RUL, helping instructors discover materials they may not have known were available, including open educational resources.
  • Insight into student engagement: Analytics show which items students view, download, or borrow, helping instructors understand what’s actually being used.

Benefits for Students

  • Easy access to all course materials: Students find everything they need in one organized place inside their course site and can even access materials via our Library Mobile app. 
  • Improved navigation and clarity: Lists can be structured week‑by‑week or by topic, highlighting essential readings and reducing confusion. 
  • More interactive learning: Students can mark items as read, leave comments, and suggest resources, helping them stay engaged and track their progress.
  • Reliable access to library materials: Direct links ensure students can quickly connect to full‑text articles, ebooks, streaming media, and other resources we provide.
If I send the libraries a PDF can they remediate it?

No, the libraries will not remediate prior versions of PDFs regardless of source.   If the material still exists within the libraries physical books or journals, a new scan can be requested which would be compliant with accessibility standards.

Is creating an accessible version of a work considered a fair use?

Yes, creating an accessible version is considered a fair use but access should be limited to the course you are teaching. For additional questions about copyright please contact ask_research@libraries.rutgers.edu.

How can I get additional accessibility support outside of the Libraries?

Rutgers Access and Disability Resources (RADR) provides institutional wide accommodations and services and works with departments across all campuses.  RADR is able to provide:

  • Assistive Technology
  • Alternative Format Text
  • ASL/CART Services 
  • Other Accommodations and Services

For a complete list of services available to students please visit RADR.

How can I create an accessible document?

Rutgers subscribes to SensusAccess, a document conversion utility that helps you create accessible documents.

Access the tool directly (you'll need a Rutgers email address to sign in), watch this video to learn more, or visit OIT's tutorial for more help. 

The Rutgers IT Accessibility Initiative provides a number of additional resources to help improve the accessibility of your documents.

Does the Library have any adaptive technology?

Aira Visual Interpreting Service

Rutgers University is proud to be an Aira Access Partner, providing free live, on-demand visual interpreting services throughout Rutgers University's Camden, Newark, and New Brunswick campuses. 

Aira can assist with real-time wayfinding, reading course materials, describing videos, conveying charts and graphics, reading posters and signage, and more.

Any student, staff, faculty, or visitor physically located on a Rutgers University campus can use Aira for free on a smartphone simply by downloading the Aira app and connecting with an agent.

Learn more about Aira on the Office of Disability Services website.

Kurzweil Reading Machines

The libraries provide Kurzweil reading machines connected to computers so that data can be downloaded and NV Access screen reading software at Robeson Library.

How do I request the remediation of library materials, tools, or services?

Please fill out a remediation request form.

Who do I contact if I have a general question about accessibility of library materials, services, sites, or tools?

Please contact rul_accessibility@rutgers.edu.