Printer
TextTalking Book Program
In 2011, the Access Services branch of the Fairfax County Public Library is one of many libraries throughout the U.S. that are marking the 80th anniversary of the Talking Books Program through the Library of Congress National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped.
Qualified residents of Fairfax County and the cities of Fairfax and Falls Church have access to more than 12,000 titles onsite in cassette or digital form and the more than 400,000 titles available through NLS. Last year, Access Services provided the free NLS program to more than 1,000 local residents, 29 schools and 33 institutions. Access Services provides Talking Books to all ages from preschoolers to centenarians -- the branch's oldest customer is 105 and the youngest is four-years-old. The average Talking Book audiobook reader borrows or downloads 52 recorded books or magazines per year.
Who is eligible for the Talking Book Program?
Individuals who are unable to read or use standard print due to
permanent or temporary blindness, visual impairment, or physical
limitations may qualify for the program. The Access Services library
provides specially recorded books, magazines, and players to residents of
Fairfax County, the City of Fairfax, and the City of Falls Church through
the free Talking Book Program of the Library of Congress National
Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped.
Materials and machines may be borrowed and returned by mail at no cost to the user. An application form signed by a certifying authority is required.
How do I register?
Request an application by e-mail, by phone at
703-324-8380 or TTY 703-324-8365, or download an
application (283K pdf file).
Note: Adobe Reader is required to view this PDF file.
To obtain a free Reader, follow this link:
How does the program work?
Once we receive your certified application, we will contact you to set
up an orientation to the program. If you are unable to come to the Access
Services library, we can schedule the orientation at your local branch or
another convenient location.
Once you are registered for the program, you may select your own books or you may ask Access Services staff to select titles for you based on your reading interests. Your books and magazines will be mailed to you in sturdy containers with preprinted return address cards.
How do I get more information?
Call us at 703-324-8380 or TTY 703-324-8365. You may also e-mail us.
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