Texas Talking Book Program Delivers Books for Free to Qualified Patrons
By Arlington Public Library
Posted on April 10, 2017, April 10, 2017

Qualified Patrons

The Arlington Public Library is expanding its low-vision resources by becoming a Texas Talking Book Program demonstration site. We want every person to find books they enjoy, but regular-print books aren't a good fit for all readers. We offer materials in large print, audio format, and Braille, and now, the Talking Book Program provides more options.

The Texas Talking Book program is a free library service provided by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission for people who can't read standard print because of temporary or permanent visual, physical, or reading disabilities. Users may borrow from a collection of more than 89,000 books and magazines in digital audio, Braille, and large print. All equipment and services, including postage and a Digital Talking Book Machine, are free.

The Arlington Public Library has a Digital Talking Book Machine and two cassettes for public demonstrations.

"We're happy to arrange a demonstration for anyone who's interested in applying to the Talking Book Program," said Cristen Williams, Library Services Manager. "Patrons can test out the machine and discover how easy it is to use."

Request a one-on-one appointment to arrange a demonstration. Please include availability and preferred library location to meet, and a staff member will contact you to set a time. Patrons can call Cristen Williams at (817) 459-6913 to arrange an appointment.

To qualify for the Talking Books Program, patrons must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Blindness
  • Visual disability
  • Physical disability
  • Reading disability

Designated library staff members can certify applications for most patrons with blindness, visual disabilities, or physical disabilities. Patrons with reading disabilities must have their applications certified by a medical doctor.

Click here to learn more about the library's accessibility resources.

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