Help Older Family Members Keep Reading in Their Lives
For older adults, losing the ability to read the standard print of a newspaper or even the pages of a large-print book can be one of the most difficult changes to accept. It can eliminate activities they've always loved, such as reading the sports page or using a cookbook.
Talking Books, a free program offered through the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS), Library of Congress, and its network of regional libraries, helps those who have trouble with standard printed pages keep reading in their daily lives. The program loans members a wide selection of recorded books and magazines, braille books and magazines, and music scores in braille and in large print.
“Reading plays an important role in our daily lives, whether it's for information or just for fun," said Frank Kurt Cylke, NLS director. "Through Talking Books we are able to put books back into the lives of those who thought they might have to give up reading. Our members keep their connection to current events, music, sports-whatever their passion is.”
Who qualifies?
Any resident of the United States or U.S. citizen living abroad who cannot read or use standard print materials because of a visual or physical impairment may qualify to participate in Talking Books. Specific information on who qualifies is available at http://www.loc.gov/nls/.
How can my family member join?
Applications may be requested from the regional or subregional library closest to the eligible family member. After an application is submitted, the playback equipment for the talking-book program will be sent within three working days. An NLS reader advisor may follow up to help personalize the selection of materials. Materials are shipped at no cost via the U.S. Postal Service.
For more information or additional assistance, call 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323) or visit http://www.loc.gov/nls/.
