With the assistance of audio books, students with visual impairment can still pursue educational goals and experience lifelong learning. Audio books, braille books, magazines and periodicals with thousands of title selections of every genre are available — from technical skills to job hunting techniques, and classical literature to a daily newspaper telephone reader program—are all invaluable for those who may have difficulty reading conventional materials.
Audio books can be enjoyed either on tape using a playback device or reader, or via digital download and utilization of a smart device. Coupled with traditional print books, or braille books, audio books create an effective supported learning environment.
Accessing an audio book library is easy. The first step is to complete a library service application. Trained staff assist with determining the best combination of audio books with the technology available like an iPhone, Android, iPad, tablet or PC. Telephone Reader Programs (TRP) allow listening to daily recordings of national and local news, grocery and department store ads, magazine articles and more.
The use of audio books for blind students is very similar to going to the neighborhood library. Schools and educators can also provide suggested resources to find audio books for students who are visually impaired. Ask about book clubs where you can participate in weekly discussions. There is an online catalog in order to browse the many selections, but a good first step is to connect with a reader advisor to determine the best method. Phone and email support are both available: 1-800-808-2555.
Set up an account, and enjoy easy access to an audio book library where the literary and academic world-is-the-limit to being well-read.
Find a location for braille and audiobooks library services.
www.brailleinstitute.org 1-800-BRAILLE (272-4553)
