TOPEKA — Any Kansan with a visual impairment, reading disability or physical disability that prevents the reading of traditional books can receive audio or braille materials free of charge. The materials are distributed by Kansas Talking Books, a division of the State Library of Kansas.
Kansas Talking Books mails audio books and magazines, audio players, and braille books and magazines to eligible Kansas residents who have been certified by a “competent authority” such as a physician. Reading materials are also available as downloads to use with a mobile device. No library card is necessary to use the free service.
Michael Lang, director of the Kansas Talking Books Service, said recent federal changes have expanded the list of professionals who can certify any eligible person for Talking Books.
“To sign up for Talking Books, an individual must have their application certified by a competent authority. Many types of health-care professionals and service providers can now certify any eligible Kansan with a print disability,” Lang said. “In addition to doctors and nurses, we also welcome certified applications from psychologists, social workers, teachers, librarians, physical or occupational therapists, and professional staff of organizations such as retirement facilities or schools. All these people can help sign up their patients, patrons or clients.”
Lang said many people don’t realize the Talking Books program serves other groups besides people with visual impairments like blindness.
“Many people struggle to hold books as they age or have other physical challenges. And kids and adults with reading disabilities like dyslexia often lose out on the joy of books,” Lang said. “We make books and magazines accessible in audio and braille formats to everybody so these kinds of challenges don’t stop people who want to read.”
Talking Books staff can assist with book selection. The large collection includes romance, mysteries, best sellers, westerns, nonfiction and children’s and young adult books.
Lang urges eligible Kansans to reach out to their health-care provider or local library for a referral to Talking Books.
More information about Kansas Talking Books can be found at kslib.info/talking or by calling 800-362-0699.
