The Library of Congress, with its rich history and vast collection of books, is a treasure trove for book lovers. However, many people may not be aware that the Library of Congress also offers a vast collection of audiobooks that can be accessed for free. In this article, we will guide you through the process of getting audiobooks from the Library of Congress, making it easy for you to enjoy your favorite books in a new way.
What Is The Library Of Congress And Its National Library Service For The Blind And Physically Handicapped?
Before we dive into the process of accessing audiobooks, it’s essential to understand the Library of Congress and its National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS).
The Library of Congress is the oldest federal cultural institution in the United States, with a collection of over 170 million items, including books, manuscripts, photographs, and more. The library’s mission is to make knowledge and creativity available to the world.
The National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped is a free program that provides braille and audio materials to individuals who are blind or have other physical disabilities that prevent them from reading or holding printed materials. The NLS is a part of the Library of Congress and serves as the national network of libraries that provide these materials.
Who Is Eligible To Access Audiobooks From The Library Of Congress?
To access audiobooks from the Library of Congress, you must be eligible for the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. The eligibility criteria include:
- Blindness or low vision
- Physical disabilities that prevent holding or reading printed materials, such as paralysis, arthritis, or multiple sclerosis
- Dyslexia or other reading disabilities
If you or someone you know meets these criteria, you can register for the NLS program and start accessing audiobooks from the Library of Congress.
How To Register For The National Library Service For The Blind And Physically Handicapped
To register for the NLS program, you will need to fill out an application form, which can be obtained from your local library or downloaded from the Library of Congress website. You will need to provide documentation from a medical professional or a social worker that certifies your eligibility.
Required Documentation
The documentation required may vary depending on your disability, but generally, you will need to provide one of the following:
- A statement from a medical doctor or ophthalmologist that confirms your visual impairment
- A statement from a social worker or vocational rehabilitation counselor that confirms your physical disability
- A copy of your certification from the Veterans Administration or the Social Security Administration that confirms your disability
Once you have completed the application form and gathered the required documentation, you can submit it to your local library or mail it to the Library of Congress.
How To Access Audiobooks From The Library Of Congress
Once you are registered for the NLS program, you can access audiobooks from the Library of Congress in several ways:
BARD (Braille And Audio Reading Download) Online Service
The BARD online service is a digital library that allows you to download audiobooks and braille materials directly to your computer or mobile device. The BARD service is free, and you can access it from anywhere with an internet connection.
To use the BARD service, you will need to:
- Create an account on the BARD website
- Download the BARD Mobile app or the BARD Express software to your computer
- Browse the BARD catalog and select the audiobooks you want to download
- Download the audiobooks to your device and enjoy
DAISY (Digital Accessible Information System) Players
The Library of Congress also lends DAISY players, which are specialized digital audiobook players that are designed for people with visual impairments. These players can play DAISY-formatted audiobooks, which are specifically designed for visually impaired readers.
To obtain a DAISY player, you can contact your local library or the Library of Congress. The player will be mailed to you, and you can use it to play DAISY-formatted audiobooks.
Cartridges And Cassettes
The Library of Congress also lends audiobooks on cartridges and cassettes, which can be played on special players. These players are designed for people who prefer to listen to audiobooks on a physical medium.
To obtain cartridges or cassettes, you can contact your local library or the Library of Congress. The audiobooks will be mailed to you, and you can use them to listen to your favorite books.
Benefits Of Accessing Audiobooks From The Library Of Congress
Accessing audiobooks from the Library of Congress has several benefits, including:
- Free access to a vast collection of audiobooks: The Library of Congress has a vast collection of audiobooks, including fiction, non-fiction, classics, and more. And, as an NLS patron, you can access these audiobooks for free.
- Convenience: With the BARD online service, you can access audiobooks from anywhere with an internet connection. You can also download audiobooks to your mobile device or computer, making it easy to listen to your favorite books on the go.
- Customizable reading experience: With DAISY players and software, you can customize your reading experience, adjusting the font size, color, and playback speed to suit your needs.
- Equal access to information: The NLS program and the Library of Congress are committed to providing equal access to information for people with disabilities. By accessing audiobooks from the Library of Congress, you can enjoy the same books as everyone else, without any barriers.
Conclusion
Accessing audiobooks from the Library of Congress is a simple process that can open up a world of possibilities for people with disabilities. With the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, you can enjoy free access to a vast collection of audiobooks, customize your reading experience, and enjoy equal access to information.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can register for the NLS program, access audiobooks from the Library of Congress, and start enjoying your favorite books in a new way.
What Is The Library Of Congress And What Does It Offer?
The Library of Congress is the oldest federal cultural institution in the United States, founded on April 24, 1800. It serves as the research library of the federal government and is home to more than 170 million items, including books, manuscripts, photographs, maps, films, and sound recordings. The Library of Congress is also the largest provider of audiobooks for people with visual impairments and disabilities, offering a vast collection of accessible materials.
In addition to its massive collection, the Library of Congress offers a range of services and programs, including research assistance, exhibitions, concerts, and educational initiatives. The library’s website also provides access to digital collections, online exhibitions, and research guides, making its resources available to a global audience. With its rich history and vast collections, the Library of Congress is a treasured institution that serves as a symbol of knowledge and learning.
Who Can Access Audiobooks From The Library Of Congress?
The Library of Congress provides free audiobook access to individuals with visual impairments, dyslexia, and other reading disabilities. This includes people who are blind, have low vision, or have a physical disability that prevents them from reading or holding a physical book. Additionally, the library offers audiobook access to organizations that serve people with disabilities, such as schools, libraries, and rehabilitation centers.
To access audiobooks from the Library of Congress, individuals must register for a free account and provide documentation of their disability. This can include a doctor’s note, a certification from a vocational rehabilitation agency, or other proof of eligibility. Once registered, users can borrow audiobooks through the library’s digital platform or receive them through the mail on digital cartridges.
What Types Of Audiobooks Are Available From The Library Of Congress?
The Library of Congress offers a vast collection of audiobooks in a wide range of genres and subjects. This includes bestselling novels, classics, biographies, history, science fiction, mystery, and more. The library also provides access to audiobooks in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, Chinese, and many others.
In addition to fiction and non-fiction titles, the Library of Congress offers audiobooks specifically designed for children and young adults. The library’s collection also includes audiobooks on topics such as health, technology, and career development, making it a valuable resource for people of all ages and backgrounds.
How Do I Access Audiobooks From The Library Of Congress?
To access audiobooks from the Library of Congress, individuals can register for a free account on the library’s website. Once registered, users can browse the library’s digital catalog and download or stream audiobooks to their devices. The library also offers a mobile app, allowing users to access audiobooks on-the-go.
In addition to digital access, the Library of Congress provides audiobooks on digital cartridges, which can be played on a specialized player provided by the library. Users can also request audiobooks through the mail, receiving them on cartridges or as downloadable files.
Can I Access Audiobooks From The Library Of Congress For Free?
Yes, the Library of Congress provides free access to audiobooks for individuals with visual impairments, dyslexia, and other reading disabilities. Registration is free, and there are no fees for borrowing or downloading audiobooks. The library also provides free access to its digital platform, mobile app, and specialized player for users who require assistive technology.
The Library of Congress is committed to providing equal access to information and educational resources for people with disabilities. By offering free access to audiobooks, the library helps to promote literacy, education, and lifelong learning for individuals who may face barriers to traditional print materials.
How Long Can I Keep An Audiobook From The Library Of Congress?
Audiobooks borrowed from the Library of Congress are typically available for a lending period of 30 days. During this time, users can listen to the audiobook as many times as they like, and they can also renew the title up to three times if they need more time to complete it.
When the lending period ends, the audiobook will automatically expire and be removed from the user’s device. Users can also return an audiobook early if they finish it before the lending period ends, allowing them to access new titles more quickly.
Can I Use Assistive Technology To Access Audiobooks From The Library Of Congress?
Yes, the Library of Congress provides access to audiobooks in formats compatible with assistive technology, including screen readers, braille displays, and other adaptive devices. The library’s digital platform and mobile app are designed to be accessible to users with disabilities, providing an inclusive and user-friendly experience.
In addition to digital access, the Library of Congress offers specialized players that can be used to play audiobooks on digital cartridges. These players are designed for users who require assistive technology and can be requested through the library’s website or by contacting the library’s customer service department.