Because of the multiple offices available to assist you, it can be confusing knowing who to contact to request accessibility accommodations. We have created this guide to help bring clarity to the process.
As you navigate requesting accessibility accommodations for yourself, it can be helpful to include your supervisor in discussions about the process. However, this is not necessary, and you don't have to include your supervisor if you aren't comfortable with it.
Also be aware that some situations have grey areas and it may take some time to find which office or committee would best serve your needs. You should be specific with your accommodation requests and follow up when submitting doctor’s notes. Be prepared to be proactive and advocate for yourself.
If it would be helpful to you, LAWG is available to help answer questions about your process.
If you are seeking physical accommodations (a stand-up desk, special mouse/keyboard, etc.), begin by contacting either the Libraries' HR (LIB.MSULHR@msu.edu) or the Ergonomics Team (LIB.DL.ergoteam@msu.edu). Typically, you should begin by contacting HR, but contacting either team will work.
Medical documentation and/or a doctor's note will likely be required - HR will keep this documentation on file. The Ergonomics Team will help with procuring the equipment you need and does not need to see the doctor's notes.
If you need other accommodations, such as specialized software (dictation software, screen reader, etc.), HR and the Ergonomics Team can also help to facilitate this, likely by working with Systems.
Registering with MSU's Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities (RCPD) will be especially helpful if you have a verified disability, documentation from your doctor, and need accommodations that can’t be met by HR/the Ergo Team.
To register with RCPD, start by self-identifying through the RCPD MyProfile. You will then need to submit sufficient disability documentation using one of the RCPD documentation forms or medical documentation containing equivalent information. Once sufficient documentation is received you will work with RCPD and the Office of Employee Relations (OER) to begin the process of securing a Statement of Employee Accommodation Determination (SEAD) letter detailing your accommodations. You can contact an RCPD specialist about whether you need a SEAD letter or if another process would work better for you. Additional information regarding disability related accommodations can be found in the University’s Disability & Reasonable Accommodation Policy.
For temporary accommodations (due to an injury, etc), your best course of action will likely be to begin with Library HR and the Ergonomics Team. Then, if necessary, you can turn to RCPD and the Office of Employee Relations if you need further assistance. You should be specific with your accommodation requests and follow up when submitting doctor’s notes.