At first glance, this may not sound interesting or relevant, but take a minute to read this before jumping to conclusions. In the past, many felt this service was only for people with complete visual impairment. Boy, has that changed. This service could open a whole new world for you or one of your family members.
Let's start with the obvious. Of course, if you cannot read normal print because of a visual disability, this is a great way to receive large print books or audiobooks for use. There is also a large collection of braille and e-braille materials. That is something we have always known, but did you know that doesn't mean you have to be completely visually impaired. You could rely on audiobooks or large print material because you can't read standard print. Even because reading over an extended time is too hard on your eyes. This would qualify you for this service.
How about holding a book? Do you have a physical impairment that prevents or makes it difficult for you to hold a book or turn pages? This could even be something as common as arthritis. Well, you qualify for talking books.
How about an organic-based reading disability such as dyslexia? People who struggle with this typically have more trouble with the written word than spoken. Talking books could be just what they need. It can also be used to listen to while following along with the printed copy to help with reading comprehension.
It's also important to remember that these do not have to be permanent disabilities. You can qualify for this free service even temporarily while you are struggling with an injury or have had surgery that interferes with your ability to read regular print. It is also not age-dependent. This is not a service exclusively for senior citizens. You can qualify at any age, but of course, juveniles would need parental consent.
So now that you have filled out the application and had it approved by your local librarian (no doctor needed), what can you expect? Well, that depends on you. There are two options. First, there is a physical talking book player that can be mailed directly to you. You will fill out a form that tells them your reading preferences and books that can be easily plugged into your player will be sent to your home. When you are through with them, you can send them back in the envelope provided and more will be shipped out to you. You can even create an online account with them and request your books directly, if you choose, just like the printed versions at your local library.
What if you prefer using your phone or tablet for instant gratification and not having to wait for the mail? Well, for you, my friend, there is BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download). The app can easily be downloaded to your device and has over 145,000 titles available, with over 1,000 added monthly. It is very simple to use, and of course, you can always get help from your local librarian. That's what we're here for!
Now before we finish up, let's try to overcome what is often the biggest obstacle. "I don't like audiobooks!" For many of us who have spent our lives reading, it is often difficult to make this transition. Here is a suggestion that helped me. Start with some of your favorite books that you may have wanted to read again. Try them in audio instead. You already know the story, so it will be easier to follow along. You can train your brain to get used to "reading" a book this way. Trust me it works. When you branch out into books that are new to you, start small. Think ten hours or less. These plots are usually easier to follow while you get used to the audio format. Then before you know it, you'll be listening to Alaska by James Michener (which is over 57 hours, don't ask me how I know) and enjoying all of your favorite books again.
At your local library, we want the joy of reading to be a lifelong experience for all of our patrons, so please ask us if you ever need help in any way. We will work hard to find a solution that is right for you.
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