Accessibility

big chair

Please contact Susan Smythe, ADA Program Coordinator, at ssmythe1@swarthmore.edu or 610-690-2063 if you require additional information about accessibility at Swarthmore or will need assistance during Garnet Weekend.

Navigating Campus Construction 

There are a number of ongoing construction projects on campus that are part of a large-scale campus renewal program designed to help modernize our facilities, fulfill our commitment to reach carbon neutrality by 2035, and ensure that our buildings and infrastructure effectively support our exceptional liberal arts educational experience. Our campus construction highlights web page includes more information on key projects.

Given this work, campus looks quite different than it usually does. If you haven’t been on campus recently, it may feel disconcerting to see the active construction zones, and it may take a little time to get used to the various pathway closures, temporary fences, and other inconveniences. 

There is robust signage across campus to help you find your way, but we encourage you to visit the College’s online campus map for an overview of current construction areas as well as accessible paths through campus before you arrive.

Accessible Parking

Accessible parking spaces are available throughout campus in all parking areas. Only vehicles with state-issued accessible parking placards and/or license plates can park in these spaces; all others will be towed. View accessible paths on an interactive campus map.

Enhanced Wayfinding and Assistance for People with Visual Disabilities

We provide all community members and visitors with access to Aira, a live, human-to-human remote assistance service. Highly-skilled, professional Agents provide Explorers (the term for Aira users) with on-demand assistance with both visual navigation  and digital access. Aira is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  For more information, email Susan Smythe, visit Aira's website, or explore our "How to Use Aria" resources.

Mobility Needs Services

The following vendors may be of assistance:

  • My Mobility Pros rents mobility scooters, manual wheelchairs, and power wheelchairs and provides delivery and pickup. Visit mymobilitypros.com or call 610-609-4740 for more information.
  • Rios Pharmacy rents standard 17" wheelchairs, as well as transport chairs, by prior arrangement. Call 610-543-1858 for more information. 
  • The Home Health Center at Aston Pharmacy offers delivery and pickup for standard 17–19" wheelchair rentals. Month- or week-long rentals can be reserved up to one week in advance; they do not offer single day rentals. Call Destiny or Sheri at 610-494-1445 x121 or x120 for assistance. 

This is a courtesy listing of available rentals for individuals who may include faculty, staff, community members, and visitors. However, Swarthmore College makes no guarantee, expressed or implied, about the accommodations or safety of the rental opportunities. It is the responsibility of each party to ensure themselves, prior to making arrangements, that they are comfortable with the rental arrangement and with the other party involved. Swarthmore College makes no representation about either party choosing to participate in the arrangements determined, and will make no attempt to intervene if conditions agreed upon by both parties are not adhered to.

By choosing to add a rental to this courtesy listing or by accepting a copy of the listing you are agreeing to release Swarthmore College, its agents and employees including members of the board of managers, directors and officers, administration, faculty, and staff from any claims or liabilities for personal injuries or other damages incurred as a result of such participation, whether or not resulting from their negligence.