Accessibility in Kensington and Chelsea libraries

Hearing and visual impairments

We have hearing loops and large print keyboards in all libraries; ask staff for more information. Registered assistance dogs are welcome in all libraries.

Kensington Central Library

• wheelchair access to the library with good manoeuvrability
• reference and local studies located on the first floor
• lift access to the first floor and to the lower ground floor, where the accessible toilets are located
• wheelchair access to the lecture theatre
• wheelchair access to the meeting room behind the lecture theatre, contact us in advance to set up the ramp
• for users of the lecture theatre and meeting room the accessible toilet is located inside the doctor's surgery

Comfortable Zones at Kensington Central Library

Speak to staff to use the zone, or to enquire about IT Help Sessions.

The zone is located in the Events Room and hosts our Digital Help programme, including IT Help Sessions. It is designed to support people on their digital journey, as an accessible and welcoming space for everyone, particularly those without internet or personal devices at home, the over 60s, wheelchair users, and visually impaired residents.

Get in the zone to enjoy:

• device use during IT Help Sessions
• desks and cosy chairs
• a wheelchair accessible space with an electric, height adjustable desk
• ambidextrous mice, large print keyboards and noise blocking headphones (request from staff)
• a machine that captures and reads documents aloud, up to A3 in size (ReadEasy Evolve Max)
• a large screen that magnifies your documents for you, making them easier to read (I-SEE HD24)
• software with ZoomText screen magnification, coupled with JAWS screen reading functionality (when PCs available)

This zone develops the existing mini-Comfy Zone, upstairs on the first floor. PCs (when available) have MS Magnifier. The desks are wheelchair accessible with electric, height adjustable buttons, equipped with ambidextrous mice for your ease, as well as being arranged with large print keyboards.

To get 'in the zone' you must be a library member. Book through our online system and choose PC 27 or 28, or speak to a member staff.

Visit Kensington Central Library

Brompton Library

• level access into building
• stairs or stair lift to first floor meeting room
• good manoeuvrability including wheelchair access

Visit Brompton Library

Chelsea Library

• lift access into building at ground floor (at side of building).
• reference library is located on the first floor.
• additional lift access to first floor.
• the main study area is accessed via small flight of steps, but there is some additional table space with wheelchair access.

 Visit Chelsea Library

Kensal Library

• level access into building

Visit Kensal Library

North Kensington Library

• ramp access via children's library and then lift or steps and/or lift to main library entrance and learning space which is located on the first floor
• learning space is located on the first floor of the building

Visit North Kensington Library

Notting Hill Gate Library

• there is no wheelchair, lift or ramp access to this building.
• there are eight steps with two handrails up to the library entrance.

Visit Notting Hill Gate Library

Home Library Service

If you find it difficult to get to your local library you may be able to apply to use the Home Library Service and have monthly visits at home.

Digital resources

We have many resources online such as ebooks, ejournals, emagazines and eresources.