DC Talking Book and Braille Program (NLS)

The DC Talking Book and Braille Program, part of the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS), provides braille and audio materials to eligible District residents who have difficulty using standard print—whether due to blindness, low vision, a physical disability, or a reading disability such as dyslexia. Registered patrons can enjoy books and magazines in accessible formats designed to meet a wide variety of reading needs.

Patrons can borrow audio materials on easy-to-use cartridges, paired with a free Talking Book player supplied by the library, or instantly download thousands of titles through the BARD mobile app. Braille readers can receive materials by mail or read digital braille on a library-loaned braille eReader through Perkins Library. Eligible readers can also use NFB Newsline to listen to newspapers and magazines over the phone.

Accessible reading isn’t limited to any one group—if print books aren’t the easiest way for you to read, this service may be the perfect fit. If you or someone you know might qualify, get in touch with us to learn more!

Who is Eligible?

Any person who lives in the District of Columbia who cannot read standard print due to a visual, physical, or reading disability. If print books aren’t the easiest way for you to read, this service may be the perfect fit.

Don't live in DC? We can refer you to your local NLS-affiliated library for service.

How to Apply?

Apply for the DC Talking Book and Braille Program by using our Google form, which is split in 2 parts. Part 1, will ask for your identifying information and must be completed by a Certifying Authority to determine eligibility. Part 2, requires your reading interests and preferences.

Part 1 of Application
Part 2 of Application (Complete after Part 1)

You may also apply by printing out our paper form. Once the form is filled out by hand, please return it to:

Center for Accessibility

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library

901 G St. NW, Room 205

Washington, D.C. 20001

Or scan and email the completed form to DCPLaccess@dc.gov

If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to the Center for Accessibility at 202-727-2142 or at DCPLaccess@dc.gov.

DC Talking Book Recording Services

For items not already available through the National Library Service (NLS), including books, magazines, or articles, items may be submitted for consideration for recording with our DC Talking Book Recording Services. As an NLS member, you can fill out our form to make a formal request for review. As we cannot guarantee recording of each request depending on availability of the material and compliance with our recording guidelines, please read over our Collection Development Guidelines before making your request.

Here is our online request form.

If you have any question feel free to reach out to Ryan Maher, our Audio Specialist, directly at the Center for Accessibility at the MLK Memorial Library @ 202-727-2142 or email him directly at ryan.maher@dc.gov.