Texans with Disabilities Can Sign Up for Free Library Services Through the Texas Talking Book Program
Austin, TX – September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month, and Texans with disabilities can celebrate by signing up for a no-cost, statewide library service through the Texas Talking Book Program (TBP). TBP serves more than 28,000 Texans who cannot read standard-print books because of qualifying visual, physical or reading disabilities. Hundreds of thousands more across the state likely qualify for enrollment.
As the Texas regional library for the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS), TBP provides access to more than 180,000 titles in accessible formats, including large-print books, digital audiobooks, braille books and more. Patrons can enjoy this vast collection of audiobooks through the NLS Braille and Audio Reading Download Service website (BARD) or in the NLS BARD Mobile app. For patrons seeking analog alternatives, TBP carries Digital Talking Book Machines and Refreshable Braille Displays that allow readers to access the full digital library. TBP mails all physical materials and provides for their return at no cost to patrons.
“Our goal at the Talking Book Program is simple: ensure that all may read,” said TBP Engagement Specialist Will Wadsworth. “Patrons tell us often how impactful our library is in their lives, and we want everyone in Texas who qualifies for enrollment to know about us.”
In the spirit of service, TBP works to eliminate as many barriers to access and enjoyment as possible. Once a person becomes a TBP patron, they remain enrolled for life. Assistive reading machines remain with readers for as long as they remain TBP patrons. Patrons are never charged late fees, and generous checkout limits help remove common barriers that might otherwise keep readers from their next story.
Like other libraries, the Talking Book Program’s collection contains far more than just books. Patrons can access more than 80 national magazines and local favorites like Texas Monthly, Texas Highways and Texas Parks and Wildlife. The TBP library even includes accessible playing cards and board games. Reader consultants and librarians work with patrons to find new reads and old favorites, and answer questions about TBP services. TBP staff and volunteers regularly add new titles to the collection, so patrons never run out of reading material.
“There are readers in every corner of this state who need access to our services, who could make use of all we have to offer today, and who simply don’t know that the Talking Book Program is waiting for them to sign up,” Wadsworth said. “The sooner all of Texas knows about us, the sooner we can serve those who most stand to benefit from our work.” More than 100 libraries and community organizations across Texas already serve as TBP Demonstration Sites, showcasing accessible reading technologies and helping community members learn about the benefits of TBP membership. Contact your local library to find out whether it participates as a Demonstration Site. To learn more about eligibility and enrollment in the Talking Book Program, or explore opportunities to become a Demonstration Site, visit www.TexasTalkingBooks.org or call 1-800-252-9605 (toll-free).
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The Texas State Library and Archives Commission provides Texans access to the information they need to be informed, productive citizens by preserving the archival record of Texas; enhancing the service capacity of public, academic and school libraries; assisting public agencies in the maintenance of their records; and meeting the reading needs of Texans with disabilities. For more information, visit www.tsl.texas.gov.
