We all love to relax with a good book…
In this week’s World Class Access, we’re focusing on The British Library. Based in London, the British Library is the national library of the UK, housing a collection of over 170 million items from all over the world, including books, newspapers, maps, stamps, patents and even sound recordings.
With spaces to read, meet friends, and find support in starting and running your business, as well as a wealth of galleries and exhibits to inspire, accessibility is paramount.
All floors have step-free access, including event spaces, Reading Rooms, exhibitions and learning centres. Doors to the Reading Rooms and Knowledge Centre operate with button-assisted opening, and the Reading Rooms offer a range of assistive technologies, including height-adjustable tables, lower service desks, alternative keyboards, and other equipment for individuals with visual or hearing impairments.
Hearing induction loops are available at numerous points, and guide and assistance dogs are welcome. Concessions are available for disabled visitors to ticketed events, as well as a free ticket for personal assistants that can be booked in advance.
The library has a second site in Yorkshire, and in March of this year, unveiled plans for a 1.1 billion renovation project, aiming to expand the library’s public spaces as well as the commercial and retail areas.
What would make World Class Access for you?
Have you seen something or somewhere that you think is an excellent example of inclusion or accessibility? Let us know in the comments, and we’ll do our best to feature it.
