Talking Books from the Library of Congress: Free Audio and Braille Books for People Who Can’t Read Regular Print
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled lends free audiobooks, braille, and magazines, plus a free player, mailed postage-free. Here is who qualifies and how to sign up.
“Class, this lesson is a little different. No jokes about squinting today. This is one of the kindest free programs in the country, and I want every one of you to know about it, for yourself or for someone you love.”
What is the NLS Talking Books program?
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, usually called NLS, is part of the Library of Congress. It has been lending books to blind readers since 1931, and today it serves anyone who has trouble reading standard print because of a visual, physical, or reading disability.
Here is what an enrolled reader can get, all free:
- Audiobooks and braille books, from bestsellers and mysteries to history, westerns, and children’s books.
- Magazines in audio or braille.
- Music materials, including scores and instruction.
- A talking-book player on loan, designed to be simple: large buttons, braille labels, and built-in spoken instructions.
- Free mail. Books arrive and go back by postage-free mail.
- BARD, short for Braille and Audio Reading Download, which lets enrolled readers download books to a phone or tablet with the BARD Mobile app for iPhone and Android.
The service works through a network of state and local cooperating libraries, so your “home” library for talking books is usually a regional library in your state.
Who qualifies?
U.S. residents and American citizens living abroad may qualify if they cannot comfortably read regular print because of:
- Blindness or low vision, including vision loss from conditions like macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetes.
- A physical disability that makes it hard to hold a book or turn pages, such as severe arthritis, Parkinson’s, or paralysis.
- A reading disability, such as dyslexia, certified by a qualified professional.
- A temporary condition, like recovery from eye surgery or an injury, which may qualify for temporary service.
Honorably discharged veterans who are blind or have a print disability receive priority service.
How to sign up, step by step
- Review the eligibility page. Use the button on this handout to visit NLS.
- Apply online or by mail. You can apply online, or contact your state’s network library for a paper form. Call 888-NLS-READ (888-657-7323) to find your library.
- Get the application certified. A “competent authority” signs off. That can include a doctor, optometrist, ophthalmologist, registered nurse, therapist, social worker, counselor, teacher, or librarian, depending on the condition.
- Wait for your library to call or write. They will set you up and talk about what you like to read.
- Receive your player and books. Then enjoy, and send books back in the same free mailer.
- Ask about BARD. Once enrolled, you can sign up to download books instantly.
Professor Ima’s quick tips
- Tell your librarian your favorite authors and genres. Many libraries can send books automatically based on your tastes.
- Helping a parent? You can fill out the form for them, but they must be the eligible reader.
- Ask about large-print or braille catalogs and phone ordering if computers are not your thing.
- Comfortable with a smartphone? BARD Mobile means no waiting for the mail carrier.
- Keep the mailing containers. They are how the books go home.
Who it’s great for
- College students: If dyslexia or another certified reading disability makes print a struggle, ask your campus disability office about certifying you.
- Young families: Children who qualify can enroll too, and there are plenty of kids’ titles.
- Working adults: If a parent’s eyesight is fading, this can bring back a lifelong love of reading. It makes a thoughtful gift of your time to set it up.
- Retirees and veterans: Vision changes are common with age. This program helps keep book clubs, news, and favorite authors part of daily life.
Things to watch for
- You need certification before you can enroll, so allow some time for paperwork.
- Items are on loan. Return books when you finish so others can enjoy them.
- Exact services, catalogs, and wait times vary by state network library.
- The program is free. Be wary of anyone who asks you to pay to enroll.
Frequently asked questions
Does NLS cost anything?
No. Books, the player loan, and mailing are free for eligible readers.
Do I have to be completely blind?
No. Low vision, physical disabilities, certified reading disabilities, and some temporary conditions may qualify.
Can I use my phone instead of the player?
Yes. After you enroll, the BARD Mobile app lets you download books to a phone or tablet.
Professor Ima B. Cheap
Eligibility rules and services can change and may vary by state network library. Cheap101 is not affiliated with the Library of Congress or NLS. Contact NLS or your local network library with questions. More handouts: Cheap101 Class Handouts · Free samples, freebies and rebates