The UCSB Library has completed the renovation and expansion of the Adaptive Technology Center (ATC), a space for students with disabilities to access technology that makes it easier to keep up with their studies.
The space now has 11 work stations (it previously had six), a new electronic access card reader, new carpet, new paint, and new furniture. A shared wall was also removed to expand the center into one larger room.
The renovations and updates were made possible with a $40,824 grant from the Advisory Committee for Campus Access (ACCA). The ACCA advises the administration on all matters related to access to campus programs, services, and activities by people with disabilities.
"The library staff identified a need to renovate the current ATC, creating additional functional work stations that more efficiently utilize the existing space,” said UCSB Vice Chancellor of Administrative Services Garry MacPherson. “The ACCA was happy to provide the necessary funding that allowed this renovation to occur, under the leadership and efforts of the library staff."
The ATC is managed by the Disabled Students Program (DSP) and has been housed in the Library ever since it was first offered on campus in 1989.
“Providing accommodations for students with disabilities is part of our responsibility to ensure that all students have equal access to educational opportunities,” said Dave Kujan, UCSB Library Building Operations Manager. “We are proud to provide space for this critical campus resource.”
The equipment and software available include scanners, text-to-speech software, screen magnification, screen readers, and more. Approved users can access the room seven days a week from 8 a.m. – 1:45 a.m.
In order to use the ATC, students must be registered through DSP, be approved for reading services, and have received training on the software. The DSP acts as the campus liaison regarding issues and regulations related to students with disabilities. It serves approximately 2,000 students, about 400 of whom use the ATC.
The ATC is located on the 1st Floor, Ocean Side of the UCSB Library. View more information on the equipment and software available.
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