Library by Mail is a free service for eligible Washington, DC residents to check out library books, DVDs and magazines through the mail. DC Public Library staff will use your library card to check out materials on your behalf, which is customizable to your interests. You will receive a call from one of our staff members after your application is processed to confirm the activation of your account and review your interests, then begin receiving materials to the address provided. The service is free and postage is pre-paid under the Free Matter for the Blind designation. There are no overdue loan fees.
(*Please note that this is a separate program from the DC Talking Book and Braille Program through the National Library Service (NLS), which is also delivered via postal mail. If you cannot read standard print material, please refer to that page for more information on that program.)
Details of the Service
Who is Eligible?
Washington, DC residents of all ages who are unable to visit to the library due to a permanent disability (one year or more), temporary disability (up to one year or less), or underlying health conditions are eligible for this service.
Mailing of Material
All Materials are mailed in a postage-paid library mailing pouch through the U.S. Postal Service. Please allow for turnaround time for the materials to arrive. When you are finished, place the materials back in the same library mailing pouch and turn over the address card. Mail the pouch back through the U.S. Postal Service.
Register for the Service
Library by Mail Application Link.
More Services Provided by The Center For Accessibility
DC Talking Book and Braille Program (NLS)
Part of the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS).
Assistive Technology Support
A guide to assistive technology and equipment available throughout the DCPL system.
