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 the DC Talking Book and Braille Program 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.
How to Apply
Apply online using our Google form, which is split into two parts. Part 1 includes a patron’s identifying information and must be completed with a Certifying Authority to determine eligibility. Part 2 includes listing one’s reading interests and preferences for participating in the program.
- 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 are unable to access a Certifying Authority, please reach out to the Center for Accessibility at 202-727-2142 or at DCPLaccess@dc.gov and ask for Deborah or Claire.
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.
