Accessibility at Harvard Library

We aim to make library spaces and collections accessible to all.

We provide study spaces and meeting rooms that are accessible, according to ADA guidelines. Accessible restrooms are available close by to most locations.

Harvard Library is open to Harvard ID holders and visitors. Information for guests is available on the visitor access guide.

Blue Banner with icons for mobility, cognitive, visual, and auditory disability.

In-person accessibility

If you would like an accommodation when visiting a library location, please contact that specific location before you visit.

Library location-specific accessibility

Location-specific accessibility information is available on each library’s page.

  • Use Locations & Hours to find the library you’re interested in visiting.
  • Individual rooms list their accessibility information in Find a Space .

If you are attending an event in the Lamont Forum room, assistive listening devices are available upon request. 

University accessibility

Looking for information about other parts of Harvard campus? These campus maps provide information helpful to users with disabilities.

University-offered accessibility services

For information about other spaces on campus, interpreters, guides, or policies, please contact University Disability Resources via email, disabilityresources@harvard.edu, or phone, 617-495-1859 or TTY 617-496-0466.

University Disability Resources

Using materials & collections

We work to make our materials as accessible as possible and are available to assist with your use of physical and digital collections.

These services are especially helpful for people with disabilities: 

Service

Scan & Deliver

Request library materials and we will digitize and send them to your inbox.
Tool

CURIOSity, digital collections gallery

Curated views and specialized search options for Harvard's digital collections.
Service

Research Consultations

Get personalized guidance from one of our library specialists online or in-person—no question is too small.
Tool

HathiTrust

Connect with digitized materials from libraries around the world.
See all Library Services and Tools

Special Collections Accessibility

If you need accommodations when visiting a special collection or archive, please contact the location(s) you’re visiting with specific accommodation requests before your visit. 

For information on assistance on making non-library materials you need for your research or courses, contact the Assistive Technology Center or your school’s Local Disability Coordinator.

How To

Use Harvard Library's Special Collections and Archives

Open to all, these unique materials can take you to places you never expected.
How To

Access Materials at Houghton Library

Houghton is home to rare books and manuscripts, literary and performing arts archives, and more. Here's how to access these primary source materials.
How To

Access Materials at the Harvard University Archives

Learn how to access our collections that document the academic, social, cultural, and work life of the Harvard community.

Digital accessibility

We are committed to providing online services, tools, and resources that are available to everyone in our community, including people with disabilities.

  • We abide by WCAG standards and regularly test our websites with assistive technology, and we work closely with vendors to address accessibility issues.
  • Universal access is our goal, but there may be some gaps. If you are unable to access an online resource due to a disability, please contact us using Ask a Librarian. 
  • We follow Harvard University’s digital accessibility policy. Read about Harvard’s digital accessibility policy, including trainings, and available resources.

Contact

This is your library. We want to do everything that we can to make sure it is accessible. 

Library staff are always happy to help answer questions about accessibility, make materials accessible, and find the best solution for your needs. 

The front doors of Widener Library
Harvard Library Access and Borrowing

Widener Library Room 130
Harvard Yard
Cambridge, MA 01238
United States

Directions
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