Skip to Content
Photos of Woman using Screen reader

Service Eligibility Guidelines

Receiving free services through the Talking Book Library is easy; individuals who meet one or more of the following eligibility guidelines listed below can register with the Library to receive braille and talking book services.

An individual is eligible for library services if at least one of the following applies:

  • 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.

To apply for free library services, complete and submit the application form below. If you’re applying on behalf of an organization, please complete the Institutional Access Application Form instead.

Applications for minors (under 18 years old) must be submitted with a Parental Acknowledgement Form signed by a parent or guardian. Typed or handwritten signatures are acceptable.

All applications must be signed and certified by a professional such as a doctor, ophthalmologist, registered nurse, librarian, or social worker.

Application for library service for individuals
Individual patron information sheet

Application for library service for institutions
Institutional patron information sheet

Spanish application for library services
Spanish Parental Acknowledgement Form (required for applicants under 18 years old)
Spanish information sheet

Back to top