Providing free audio and Braille materials to visually and physically impaired patrons in Grand Traverse, Antrim, Benzie, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee, Missaukee, and Wexford Counties.
Open Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Contact us by calling our toll free number (877) 931-8558, our local number (231) 932-8558, or send us an email at tbl@tadl.org.
About the Talking Book Library
If you or someone you know is unable to read standard type print, unable to hold a book in your hands, or has a learning disability like dyslexia that prevents reading, you qualify for this free audio and Braille book service. Administered by the National Library Service, this program is available for people of all ages with temporary or permanent low vision, blindness, or a physical disability that prevents them from reading or holding the printed page.
TADL Talking Book Library supports our patrons who qualify and are interested in checking out audiobooks and magazines on cartridge or for download, Braille books and magazines, and descriptive video. Materials are delivered directly to your home through the U.S. Postal Service, postage free. If required, special equipment is provided to you at no charge.
To get started, fill out a Talking Book Library application, which you can download by clicking on the following link: Download Application. This application is not the same as a Traverse Area District Library card application. Fill out the application and have it certified by a Talking Book Library librarian, or a doctor, nurse, therapist, or other individual who is qualified (see application for details). Then, either mail or hand-deliver your application to:
Traverse Area District Library
Talking Book Library
610 Woodmere Ave.
Traverse City, MI 49686
BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download)
BARD is a direct access downloadable book service specifically for Talking Book Library patrons. Access requires a separate application which you will fill out online. On the application, select either “Individual” or “Institution,” then on the next screen, select “MI – The Grand Traverse Area Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped” from the pull down menu. Please click on the following link to be taken to the website where you will fill out that application: Link to BARD Application.
Downloading from BARD requires an email address, a computer with a high-speed Internet connection, a digital cartridge or USB/flash/thumb drive, and an NLS-issued or NLS-compatible Digital Talking Book Machine. Alternatively, the BARD app may be used with an Android or iOS device, just download the app from your device’s respective store.
To be taken to the website for answers to Frequently Asked Questions about BARD, please click on the following link: BARD Frequently Asked Questions.
If you have any further questions, or need help using BARD, please email us at tbl@tadl.org, or call us at (231) 932-8558 or (877) 931-8558.
Service from the National Library Service Lions clubs are recognized for their service to people who are blind and visually impaired, hearing impaired, or diabetic. Please visit the District website to find the Lions Club closest to you. The On-Line Public Access Catalog (OPAC) provides complete access to information about every book available through the Michigan Network of Regional and Subregional Libraries with the exception of those held in Wayne County. Anyone can browse the OPAC. Library of Congress Through a national network of cooperating libraries (including TADL’s Talking Book Library), NLS administers a free library program of braille and audio materials circulated to eligible borrowers in the United States by postage-free mail. PO Box 3007 Provides library service for individuals unable to use standard print materials. Grand Rapids Office If you live in Michigan and you're blind or visually impaired, the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons will work with you to define your goals and identify appropriate training and other services. Funded by federal and state taxes, BSBP provides counseling and training in skills for daily living without vision. Depending upon your needs and eligibility for specific services, BSBP may also provide some types of adaptive equipment, computer software, and postsecondary education.
Washington, DC 20542-4962
Phone: 800-424-8567
E-mail: nls@loc.gov
Lansing, MI 48909-7507
Phone: 800-992-9012
E-mail: BTBL@michigan.gov
State Office Building, 4th Floor
350 Ottawa Ave., N.W.
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Karyn Silky, CRV, VRT
Certified Rehabilitation Counselor/Teacher
Phone: 616-356-0185
E-mail: silkyk@michigan.gov