The Talking Book Library (TBL), located inside of the Worcester Public Library, loans accessible reading materials to Massachusetts residents who are unable to read standard print due to a disability.
The Talking Book Library is available to anyone who falls into one or more of the following categories:
- They are legally blind with vision of 20/200 or less, or have a visual field no greater than 20 degrees.
- They are unable to see well enough to read with comfort for extended periods of time, even with correction.
- They have a physical limitation that makes holding a book or turning pages difficult.
- They are blind or have low vision with a profound hearing loss.
- They have a reading disability that cannot be corrected to the level of normal vision, making it difficult to read printed materials.
TBL provides access to an extensive collection of materials in audio, large type, and braille formats. This includes books for readers of all ages and interests, as well as materials in several world languages.
All services, including mailings, are provided at no cost to the user. We are able to provide this free program thanks to support from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners, Worcester Public Library, and National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled.
To apply for service, download an Application for Service or request one from us by calling 1-800-762-0085. Be sure to include the appropriate signature on the
Membership includes an easy-to-use audio player for books on cartridge with simple instructions. Alternatively, patrons may download books to their tablet or phone using the BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download) Service.
Yes, special accessories for playback equipment includes:
- Headphones
- Pillowphone for readers restricted to bed
- High volume player with headset for readers with profound hearing loss
- Breath switch for readers who have little or no use of their hands
Listening to talking books is as simple as plugging in and pressing play! Please be sure to read or listen carefully to our operating instructions, which come with the equipment. Library staff are available to answer additional questions at 508-799-1730.
Digital Books may be borrowed for eight weeks. Large Print books may be borrowed for four weeks.
Patrons should return all materials in the same containers in which they were sent. The address labels will have the patron's address on one side, and the library's address on the other side. When returning an item, the container should display the library's address.
Yes, the Talking Book Library offers institutional accounts to educators, and students are encouraged to open accounts for personal use as well.
By law, the Talking Book Library service is available only to eligible individuals whose applications have been approved.
Yes. Please contact us for a replacement. Once it arrives, send the old machine back in the box the new one shipped in. Please do not attempt to repair the broken equipment.
Patrons can request that materials be sent to vacation or out of state residences as well as places such as long term care or rehabilitation facilities. If you move out of state, we can transfer your account to a library closer to your new residence.
Yes. Notify the Talking Book Library as soon as possible of address changes so library service will continue uninterrupted.
Patrons with internet access can search the Talking Book Library's online catalog.
Yes. Patrons have access to a large collection of magazine subscriptions in digital talking book format. Patrons can also access audio news through NFB Newsline, which provides access to over 600 national and local news publications. Call us at 508-799-1730.