A Free Service Helps Bookworms with Impaired Vision, Hearing or Mobility
INSIDER TIP: The National Library Service supplies books, periodicals and instructional materials in audio formats for those with visual, auditory or physical impairments—and all at no cost.
 As vision diminishes due to old age or macular degeneration, difficulties with reading and concentration can lead seniors to put down their favorite books and magazines. Seniors with limited mobility or without transportation may have difficulty getting to a library or book shop. However seniors have a solution—through the NLS, National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, they can borrow talking books free-of-charge without having to travel.
Most of the books are sent to patrons postage-paid along with a free return envelope, like other rental-by-mail services such as Netflix. The NLS not only keeps a large library of commercially available titles but also produces their own audio books on a specialized cassette format. In addition, they also provide a selection of large-print books for those with low vision.
Enrollment in the program is simple. In most cases, the service is available to anyone certified by a physician as having limited vision or mobility. NLS's search engine will direct you to your local talking book library so you can contact them directly for their specific requirements—some branches even do all the paperwork for you!
Enrollees can search the NLS catalog online or browse new titles in their bi-monthly Talking Book Topics, which announces new releases books and library news. Users can even opt to receive a "surprise package" from a librarian based on your reading preferences.
In additional to audio-book lending, the NLS also provides a bevy of special accessories to individuals with specific needs including:
- Amplifiers for those with a significant hearing loss
- Breath Switches for individuals with significant mobility issues
- Extension Levers for individuals with dexterity issues due to arthritis or other conditions that prevent them from easily manipulating the key controls on a standard cassette machine
- Headphones for readers who require them for reading talking books where open-air speakers are not permitted, as in nursing homes and hospitals.
- Pillow Speakers & Remote Control Units for bed-bound individuals or those currently undergoing recovery
As we live in a digital age, the more forward-thinking amongst us might wonder: "Can I get my books on CD?" Right now, the NLS is pilot-testing a new digital standard in a number of regional libraries. Once the testing period has ended, NLS audio books will be distributed by the new digital format in increasing numbers, but the existing catalogue on cassettes and records will still be available through talking book libraries. Currently, BARD, Braille and Audio Reading Download, a digital delivery system of books for usage on your home computer, is available to users that qualify and are part of the regular NLS program.
Refresher: Contact your local talking-book library and start enjoying your favorite books and magazines again for free.
Extra Credit: Have another issue you need solved for a person with low vision? Check out our Low Vision Product Aids section.
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