For veterans who have difficulty reading standard printed materials because of a visual, physical, or reading disability, the California State Library offers a valuable resource that many may not know about.
The Braille and Talking Book Library (BTBL) provides free library services to eligible Californians who are unable to read standard print materials. The program gives participants access to books and magazines in accessible formats, helping ensure that a disability does not have to stand in the way of enjoying a good book, continuing to learn, or staying connected to information.
Who Is Eligible?
The service is available to individuals whose ability to read standard printed material is affected by blindness, visual impairment, a physical disability, or a reading disability.
For veterans, there is an additional benefit worth knowing about. Honorably discharged veterans receive preference in the lending of books and equipment.
What Does the Library Offer?
Through the Braille and Talking Book Library, eligible readers can access a variety of materials in accessible formats. Services include talking books and magazines, braille materials, and access to downloadable books through the National Library Service’s BARD program.
The library also has a Californiana Collection, featuring audio books connected to California, including books by California authors and books about the state’s history, geography, culture, people, and more.
There Is No Cost to Participate
BTBL services are provided free of charge to eligible individuals. Veterans or family members assisting a veteran can complete an application to determine eligibility and begin receiving services.
This can be an especially helpful resource for older veterans or veterans living with disabilities that make holding a book, seeing standard print, or reading for extended periods difficult.
Sometimes the resources that can make everyday life a little easier are the ones we simply haven’t heard about yet. We encourage veterans, caregivers, family members, and veteran-serving organizations throughout California to help spread the word about this free program.
Learn more about the California State Library’s Braille and Talking Book Library and how to apply:
https://www.library.ca.gov/btbl/