Learning Resources Centres (LRCs) services and support for neurodiverse students

Just like any busy space, we understand that the LRCs can sometimes feel overwhelming. This guide explains the services and spaces available to help you make the most of the LRC.

If you cannot find what you need, please contact library staff. We are here to help. 

• Before You Visit
• Study Spaces and Facilities
• Accessing Resources and Technology
• Get Help and Support
• Accessing Resources off campus

Before You Visit

Check what to expect before you arrive at the LRC.

• Check how busy the LRC is using the Herts Mobile app. Select ‘Plan your visit’ to see the live occupancy data and daily trends.
• Disabled parking is available directly outside the College Lane LRC and near DeHavilland LRC.
• Find accessible campus and building information in the University of Hertfordshire Accessibility Guide on AccessAble 

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Study Spaces and facilities

Choose the study environment that works best for you:

• Quiet and silent study spaces when you need fewer distractions
• Book a group study room and adjust the lighting to create a study environment that suits you
• Use the Sensory Study Room for a quieter, low stimulation space for studying. Access is currently available through a referral from Student Health and Wellbeing.
• Connect your laptop to a larger monitor for a more comfortable study setup.
• Adjust text size and mouse settings on our LRC PCs and Macs.
• Explore the Reading for Pleasure collection to support your wellbeing.  

Accessing Resources and technology

Use these services and tools to access learning materials in a way that works for you.

Find and access books:

• Reserve books through the online library and collect them later
• Use the book retrieval service for help getting items from the shelves
• Request a scan of chapters if an electronic version is not available.
• Use the Library Catalogue point on the ground floor for easy access.

Use accessible formats:

• Convert documents into accessible formats using SensusAccess.
• Request accessible copies of resources (e.g., printed, PDFs, screen reader-friendly) based on your needs.

Use technology and study tools:

• Borrow a Chromebook and use it anywhere on campus
• Use the accessibility tools available on all LRC PCs and Macs, including: 
  - text-to-speech 
  - voice typing 
  - read-aloud tools
• Access built-in reading support features in many eBooks and Microsoft 365 apps.  
  Borrow items from the sensory lending collection to help manage anxiety. 

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Get help and support

Get help with study skills, technology and finding your way around the LRC:

• Ask library staff at the welcome desk for help finding resources, study spaces and services.
• Use accessible information points on every floor to connect directly to the Helpdesk
• Book an in-person IT appointment through the Helpdesk if you need technical support.
• Visit the Study Success Hub for drop-in support with assignments, assessments, digital platforms, academic English and maths.
• Access  the Library SkillUP Canvas module for study guides, videos and tips. You can also use the weekday online chat service for one-to-one support.
• Contact the 24/7 LRC Security team at any time if you have concerns during your visit. 

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Accessing Resources off campus

Continue using many LRC services wherever you study, including:

• Online Library to search for books, journals and learning resources.
• Libby to read eBooks and other digital titles
• Lean Library to find and access online resources more easily.
• Remote desktop to access to specialist University software
• Postal book service to receive and return physical books by post. 

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