Written By: Adina Vega
Edited By: Michelle Sosa and Genevieve Hammang
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS) Library of Congress brings literature to people with disabilities.
For those who cannot read traditional print because of a visual, physical, or reading disability, getting access to literature can be difficult. The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS), Library of Congress, is helping this population by bringing the library to them. Through a national network of 90 cooperating libraries, serving US citizens in every state and territory and those living abroad, NLS offers books in braille or audio formats, instantly downloadable or mailed to the reader for free. The NLS ensures that all may read by providing eligible patrons access to NLS materials regardless of age, economic circumstances, or technical expertise.
Since its establishment in 1931, NLS has had one mission: to ensure that a disability is no barrier to one’s opportunity to experience the joy of reading. Congress created the NLS out of concern for veterans who were blinded in war; they remain a priority population.
An example of a HumanWare braille e-reader is available at most NLS member libraries.
The collection offers hundreds of thousands of books, magazines, and music instruction and appreciation materials in braille and digital audio—nearly half of them available instantly from BARD, the online Braille and Audio Reading Download service. The Music Section of the NLS includes more than 25,000 titles, including braille and large-print scores and recorded instructional materials about music and musicians. It is the largest accessible collection of its kind in the world. Music-related magazines in audio and braille are also available. The NLS program has evolved significantly, from vinyl records and cassettes to digital audio cartridges and downloadable files available via their Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) online service app. This evolution ensures that NLS remains at the forefront of accessible literature and media services.
Often overlooked, the blind and print disabled have more resources than ever to access literature and media. What’s truly remarkable about NLS services is their inclusivity. They aren’t exclusively for the blind and visually impaired. For example, NLS offers services to those temporarily recovering from a stroke, injury, or eye surgery. Those living with dyslexia are also catered to. Young readers (children and teenagers) can also receive services. Parents or guardians, librarians, and educators can sign up to receive materials. Reading materials are available in Spanish and many other languages. This invaluable resource and service is a lifesaver for many who want to expand their minds and knowledge but may not have easy access to the content.
The Music Section of the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS), Library of Congress, includes more than 25,000 titles, including braille and large-print scores and recorded instructional materials about music and musicians.
NLS is a braille and talking book library service for people with temporary or permanent low vision, blindness, or a physical, perceptual, or reading disability that prevents them from reading or holding the printed page. And the best part? From the start, these services have been provided free of charge to patrons. Imagining what technological advances the future will bring, NLS continues to explore ways to leverage the latest technology to improve patron services and expand collections. Eligible readers can request an application and, with the sign-off from a medical, education, or library professional, folks can get reading fast. If you or anyone you know is interested in receiving these services, please click here for more eligibility information.
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