NLS at the Library of Congress

What's new at NLS

National Library Service (NLS) is a free braille and talking book library service for people with temporary or permanent low vision, blindness, or a physical, perceptual, or reading disability that prevents them from using regular print materials. Through a national network of cooperating libraries, NLS circulates books and magazines in braille or audio formats, that are instantly downloadable to a personal device or delivered by mail free of charge.

Got a question for an NLS librarian? Our reference section can help you dive deeper into one of our reference publications or answer questions related to NLS service. Email [email protected] for help.
Learn more about BARD and other online services [PDF] and how you can sign up for BARD to download books and magazines instantly. Want assistance getting started? Get help with BARD and NLS equipment.

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ENROLLMENT AND EQUIPMENT

Sign up to use NLS services. Learn how to receive equipment and materials through the mail and register for online downloads.

BRAILLE AND AUDIO READING MATERIALS

Locate a book, magazine, or musical score. Search the NLS catalog and learn how to acquire special-format materials from many sources.

RESOURCES

Find a wealth of referrals. Learn about sources of assistive technology, education, employment advice, and more.

ABOUT

Learn what we do and why. Explore the past, present, and future of NLS.