At First Aid for the Blind, we know the importance and value of reading. Books open up worlds of knowledge, fight against ignorance, teach us new skills, help us understand lives that are different than our own, offer escapism and adventure, and fuel our hopes and dreams for a better world.
Walt Disney once said, “There is more treasure in books than in all the pirate's loot on Treasure Island.”
This is especially true for blind and low-vision folks, whose access to resources and tools is more limited than sighted individuals. Books really are treasures for the visually impaired community!
That’s why FAFTB is so passionate about sharing information regarding the National Library Service through The Library of Congress. Their website shares their mission, which says:
“National Library Service (NLS) is a free 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 using regular print materials. Through a national network of cooperating libraries, NLS circulates books and magazines in braille or audio formats, that are instantly downloadable to a personal device or delivered by mail free of charge.”
Many blind folks learn about the NLS through state vocational rehabilitation specialists. But, FAFTB has found that many people still don’t know about this resource and the wealth of tools it provides. In fact, we’ve recently shared the link with some individuals on Facebook and were surprised how many had not yet connected with the NLS. We were able to step in and communicate how to get involved. Now, we want to share those details here on our blog!
First, visit loc.gov/nls. This homepage has all the needed information. Let’s break it down.
To get information about enrollment, visit https://www.loc.gov/nls/how-to-enroll/.
To view eligibility requirements, visit https://www.loc.gov/nls/information-request/.
To request a free-of-charge application, visit https://www.loc.gov/nls/information-request/. Or, you can download the applications at https://www.loc.gov/nls/how-to-enroll/apply-for-nls-services/application-in-english-spanish-and-for-institutions/.
Once you are set up within the NLS system, you can download the BARD app to access all the reading and music materials in the NLS library. BARD information is here: https://www.loc.gov/nls/how-to-enroll/sign-up-for-bard-and-bard-mobile/. If you would like information on renting or buying talking book players and other tools, visit https://www.loc.gov/nls/services-and-resources/equipment-for-nls-materials/. You can request that equipment at this link: https://www.loc.gov/nls/how-to-enroll/request-nls-equipment-for-nls-materials/.
Additionally, if you are comfortable reaching out to your state library, many are affiliated with the NLS system and can assist you. And, if you work with a vocational rehabilitation specialist who has not yet connected you with the NLS, make sure to ask about it!
“At FAFTB, we truly believe knowledge is power,” said Kurt Deichmann, FAFTB president and CEO. “We’ve seen the transformative power of books for blind people; books bring independence, confidence, and an unlimited tap of knowledge. With that, blind and low-vision folks are more empowered to live life to the fullest. We appreciate the NLS for the access they provide to books, magazines, and music materials that would otherwise be unattainable to our community.”
To learn more about First Aid for the Blind’s training or to ask our team questions, email admin@faftb.com. We would be happy to connect with you.
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