Talking Books

People with visual and physical handicaps can still enjoy reading through the talking-book program. Talking books are available on loan to eligible readers across the country. The National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS), part of the Library of Congress, produces these recorded and braille books and magazines and all the equipment needed for listening.

Talking books and magazines are narrated by professionals and produced on cassette tapes. A network of cooperating local libraries loans the books and easy-to-use equipment to readers and is available to provide a full range of other library services.

The talking book program, like other library programs, serves readers of all ages. Older adults are a big part of that group. Of the 30 million Americans over sixty-five, many are temporarily or permanently unable to read standard print. It is possible you know someone who could benefit from the talking book program.

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What kind of books can I get? More than 67,000 biographies, bestsellers, classics, mysteries, romances, westerns, poetry books, histories, children's, and how-to books are available. Music materials, bibliographies, catalogs,and some foreign language titles are also circulated to eligible readers. Titles on health and fitness for seniors as well as books on retirement activities and the rights of older Americans may also be borrowed.

How do I get them? Conveniently! You can participate directly from your home by postage-free mail or through your activities director if you're a resident of a health care facility or retirement center. Books and equipment are all loaned free, and you'll also receive a free bimonthly catalog of new titles. Choose your own books, or opt from "surprise packages" from a librarian who knows your reading preferences.

But are the machines easy to work? Yes. The cassette players can be ordered with special accessories such as headphones, amplifiers, and remote control units that can be operated by touch or with an optional attachment. Machines and accessories are also loaned free, and there is no cost for repairs and replacements.

Can I involve my senior center or nursing home? Certainly. Ask the staff to promote the program at your facility. Residents can receive individual service through the mail form the nearest talking book library, or the activities director can establish a "deposit collection" (a mini-library) at your facility.

Am I eligible? You are if you are blind, physically handicapped, or unable to read standard print (with corrective aids); or if you can't hold or turn the pages of books because of a physical handicap. You can enroll even if your condition is temporary; for example, if you have just had eye surgery or have a temporary physical condition that keeps you from holding a book.