Don’t let vision loss stop your reading habit!
If you, or someone you know, has difficulty reading or handling standard print, the Braille Institute Library can make reading possible.
The Braille Institute Library offers books-on-demand (audiobooks) in digital cassette format, tailored to your reading preferences. Getting started is easy! Stop by any Burbank Public Library’s Information Services Desk to sign up or check out materials. Our librarians are here to assist you every step of the way.
Need a new digital cassette machine? Burbank Public Library can help with that—bring in your faulty or broken device, and we’ll exchange it for a new one.
What is the Braille Institute Library?
The Braille Institute Library is a part of the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS), a program of the Library of Congress. This award-winning library offers free services to people with permanent or temporary vision loss or any physical, perceptual, or reading disability that makes it difficult to use standard print materials.
Benefits of Becoming a Braille Institute Library Patron
As a patron, you’ll have free access to:
- Braille Books: Traditional Braille books for tactile reading.
- Books on Demand (Talking Books): Audiobooks on custom cartridges (up to 15 titles per cartridge), mailed directly to you. All recordings are professionally narrated.
- BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download): A mobile app for downloading books directly to your smartphone, designed specifically for patrons with low vision.
- Reader Advisors: Personalized recommendations and support from dedicated staff.
- Telephone Reader Program: Access a variety of information (magazines, local newspapers, weather, grocery store ads) by calling in. Available in English and Spanish.
- Children’s Library: A tactile sensory wall for children, featured in the L.A. Times.
- Classes, Workshops, and Events: Participate in engaging events like author talks, book clubs, and workshops, including storytelling through Audio Zines.
- Long-Term Equipment Loans: Borrow essential assistive technology like Digital Players, Victor Reader Streams, RUBY readers, Currency Readers, and more.
- Assistive Technology Tutors: Learn how to use assistive technology in one-on-one or group sessions with trained tutors.
How Does Burbank Public Library Support the Braille Institute?
We’re proud advocates for the Braille Institute Library. Our role is to connect patrons with this invaluable resource.
Additionally, at Burbank Central Library and Buena Vista Branch Library, we have a small collection of Talking Books and digital cassette players available for borrowing. These materials are located in the Accessibility Corner at Burbank Central Library and at the Holds Counter at Buena Vista Branch Library.
Burbank Public Library also has large print books and books on CD available in our collection.
We’re here to help make reading accessible and enjoyable for all!
For more information about California’s Library Services for People with Print Disabilities, visit the California State Library website.