Talking Books are books and magazines recorded for people who need to “hear” their reading, because of a visual disability or a physical disability that prevents holding a book or turning a page. Talking Books are played on special players provided free by the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, a division of the Library of Congress.
The books and equipment are mailed postage free to eligible readers from a collection of over 2 million books and recorded magazines that appeal to readers of all ages and interests.
An application is available from the Florida Bureau of Braille and Talking Book Library Services, or call the Lee County Talking Books Library at 239-995-2665. The application must be certified by a health care professional.
We also can direct you to local service agencies, such as the Radio Reading Service, where newspapers and magazines are read over a special receiver that is provided to eligible listeners. In addition to the collection of recorded books and magazines, the Lee County Library System offers a collection of assistive devices for a two week checkout with a Lee County Library card. There are items for people with visual disabilities, hearing loss, and adapted games.
Talking Books is located in the Northwest Regional Library. Click here for directions or more information.