Do you have trouble reading or holding printed books? If so, Talking Books might be for you!
What Are Talking Books?
Talking Books are free full-length audio recordings of books and magazines delivered free by mail to individuals who cannot read standard print due to temporary or permanent low vision, blindness, or physical disabilities. This program also serves those with difficulty reading due to learning or reading disabilities, such as dyslexia. Talking Books are available in various digital formats, making them accessible through Talking Book devices, smartphones, and computers. The Free Talking Books program is run by the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS).
What Does the Program Offer?
Participants in the program have free access to over 70,000 full-length audiobooks on digital cartridges. The collection includes bestsellers, popular fiction, magazines, nonfiction titles, and foreign-language materials. Books and magazines are delivered to their homes on digital cartridges and can be returned at no cost, thanks to free postage.
The Talking Book device, provided free of charge, is designed to be user-friendly. It features large buttons and a key describer mode, where the player verbally explains the function of each button. This helps ensure that participants can operate the device independently.
If you prefer digital access, once registered, the Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) is a web-based service offering access to over 100,000 books, magazines, and music materials in audio or Braille formats. You can also use the BARD Mobile app to download audiobooks or Braille titles directly to your iOS or other accessible devices.
Who is Eligible?
Any U.S. resident who meets the following criteria can apply for the Talking Book program:
- blindness;
- visual impairment;
- A physical disability that limits their ability to hold a book or turn pages (including those who have been impacted by a stroke, Parkinson's, etc.);
- a reading disability (such as dyslexia) resulting from organic dysfunction.
How to Apply
The application process is straightforward and user-friendly. Most can be certified by library staff, though individuals with reading disabilities will need certification from a doctor. We're here to guide you through every step.
APPLY: NLS Application for Free Library Service (English and Spanish)
To apply for the Illinois Talking Books Program, print and complete the following application, have it signed by a certifying authority and mail it to:
Illinois State Library
Gwendolyn Brooks Building
300 S. 2nd St.
Springfield, IL 62701-1796
Fax: 217−782−9995
Email: isltbbs@ilsos.gov
Questions? If you need help accessing any of our services, call us or visit one of our service desks, and we’ll be happy to help! You also can schedule a 1-on-1 appointment with one of our staff members, and they will be happy to help you explore and get started: addisonlibrary.org/appointments.