Can I Use NLS?
Any resident of the United States or American citizen living abroad who is unable to read or use normal print materials as a result of temporary or permanent visual or physical limitations may receive service through NLS. This includes those who are blind, have a visual or perceptual disability that prevents them from reading normal print, or have a physical disability that keeps them from being able to hold a book. NLS service extends to individuals with reading disabilities. Learn more about eligibility.
Here's what our patrons have to say…
NLS helps hundreds of thousands of readers enjoy the freedom to read their way. You can join them. Apply today!
Do you have difficulty holding the printed page because of a physical disability? NLS is for you.“For someone who may not be able to physically hold a book in their hands, there are special devices that allow them to access the same content that anybody else would. It’s basically like being able to live in the same world that everybody else is living in.”
– Bill B., NLS patron since 1980
As we age, our vision often declines. Be independent. Be inspired. NLS allows you to continue reading on your own.“The talking books program has been one of the best things that’s happened to me recently. I had been developing macular degeneration over the past seven years. And I knew that, eventually, it was going to get to the point where I didn’t recognize people and could no longer drive nor read. So I was preparing myself for being in that condition and getting ready for it while I could still do my own walking and driving. It’s a big load off my mind to be able to have all that lined up as my vision gets worse.”
– Jack C., NLS patron since 2008
NLS offers books the way you want them — in braille or audio; shipped to your door for free or downloaded in minutes.“It’s huge to be able to have access to the same books all your friends are reading. To be able to talk about the same books as others are reading, as a kid and as an adult, is about being part of the community, being able to engage. Imagination, adventure, reading! It’s all about that but also to make connections with others about what you’re reading, and even make friends through what you are reading. It is one of those things that brings us all together and it is hugely important.”
– Brian M., NLS patron since 1985
The BARD Mobile app is available on your iOS or Android device. No need for special equipment to read. “Being able to download titles and manage my reading list independently has made an outstanding service so much better. The BARD Mobile app for the iPhone has also been so wonderful since it makes it so easy to take books with you anywhere. I truly cannot imagine my life without the NLS program.”
– Peggy C., NLS patron since 1962
NLS offers talking books free for veterans who have difficulty reading standard print. You protected our freedom. Now enjoy the freedom to read your way.“When I run across [other] veterans that are curious about what I’m doing, I usually take the time to open the [BARD Mobile] app, show them around, give them an idea of what’s available in the audiobook library, show them the different features. Most veterans haven’t been exposed to [having a] disability [for very long], so they’re very curious. And the app allows me to be able to talk over something that’s very near and dear to my heart and gives them an opportunity to be able to enjoy books, to access the content that they may be missing.”
– Dan S., NLS patron since 2004
The gift of reading is still available to those you care for. Find out eligibility requirements for free braille or audiobooks through NLS.“I’ve been in the blindness rehabilitation field for over 20 years, and usually once people have the opportunity to see the different services that NLS provides, they jump right into it, especially if it’s somebody who’s been a reader in the past and who’s really enjoyed reading. It helps them start right where they left off with an activity that they really enjoy.”
– Bill B., NLS patron since 1980