Library Services

Library Materials for Persons with Visual Disabilities

Descriptive video recordings (DVS), large type books, Braille books for children, audiobooks, and downloadable audiobooks are available from the Library. Each of these is described below, followed by instructions on how to search for them in the Library's online catalog. At the bottom of the page, information is provided on items from the State Library and the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS). If you need assistance, please contact us.

Descriptive Video Recordings (DVS)

In DVS videos the action is described verbally in between the dialog.

Large type books

Print in these books is enlarged to make reading easier for persons with partial vision.

To limit your catalog search to a specific author, title, or subject:

• Connect to the online catalog
• In the search box type large type and include the specific author, title or subject
• On the search results page there will be options on the left hand side to refine your results.

Braille Books for Kids

Audiobooks

Audiobooks are books that are read aloud and recorded.

To see a list by author, title or subject in the Library's Catalog:

• Connect to the online catalog
• Type the specific author, title or subject in the search box and the word audiobooks.
• Click the search button to see only the audiobook results for your search.

To see a list of only fiction, only non-fiction, only mysteries, etc:

• Connect to the online catalog
• Type audiobooks in the search box.
• On the search results page there will be a list on the left hand side in which you can refine your results. Under "Subjects" click the "More" link to limit your results by fiction, non-fiction or mysteries.

Downloadable Audio and eBooks

An eBook is an electronic version of a printed book. The Library makes electronic books, downloadable audiobooks, and downloadable music available from a variety of sources.

• Many downloadable audio and eBooks can be found in the Library Catalog.
• Search for them just as you would any other library materials — by title, author, subject, or keyword.
• Using the "Format" dropdown below the main search field (or at the top right of the search results page), you can limit your results to Nonmusical recordings or E-Books. See Downloadable Audio and eBooks for more information.

Additional Materials from the California State Library's Braille and Talking Book Collection

The California State Library loans braille, cassette and talking books, magazines and playback equipment to northern Californians unable to read conventional print. Application forms for this service are available at http://www.library.ca.gov/btbl/.

Additional Materials from the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS)

Through a national network of cooperating libraries, NLS administers a free library program of braille and audio materials circulated to eligible borrowers in the United States. There are two ways to receive materials from the library: through downloading from the Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) website and/or through the US Postal Service. Books and magazines, in both braille and audio formats, can be downloaded from BARD and read using a personal or NLS-supplied refreshable braille display, an NLS digital talking-book player, a commercial digital player, or the BARD Mobile application for iOS or Android devices. Available materials include musical scores and instructional materials, books, magazines, and more. For additional information, see the NLS FAQ page.

Available at these branch libraries:

• Available at all branches

Last updated on June 29, 2023