Harold Washington Library Center
Talking Book Center
Eligibility and Application
Qualifying for Free Library Service
To qualify for this free service, an individual must possess at least one of the following impairments temporarily or permanently:
- Cannot see well enough or focus long enough to read standard print comfortably, with glasses (due to complications from macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetes or advanced age);
- Declared “legally blind”;
- Unable to handle print books or turn pages because of a physical disability (such as arthritis, paralysis of hand or arms or muscular dystrophy), even if temporary; or
- Reading disability due to an organic dysfunction (such as dyslexia).
- Request an application from the Talking Book Center (TBC) or download an application online.
- The prospective patron must be sure to indicate the nature of the visual or physical disability on the application.
- The disability must be certified by someone in the professions listed on the application, such as a physician, optometrist, nurse, public librarian, or social worker (with exception of reading disability); that must be certified by a medical doctor (MD, DO, or psychiatrist, NOT psychologist).
- Return the completed application to the TBC either via US Postal Service or in person.
After an application has been approved, the patron will receive a player, catalogs, and a few sample audio books via U.S. Postal Service. All audio books are specially formatted and require the use of a specialized player provided on free loan. After this initial shipment, the patron may determine the genre and number of books he/she wishes to receive.
Select the link below to download a printable application:
- PDF File Application for Free Library Service for Individuals
- PDF File Spanish Application for Free Library Service for Individuals
Non-Chicago residents are provided services from other Talking Book Centers located statewide.
Illinois State Talking Book and Braille Service