The Talking Books Division offers direct access to collections of accessible reading, viewing and music appreciation and instructional material to eligible Kansans. Patrons can also access local news and weather alerts, receive Braille schedules for major U.S. sports leagues or to receive physical copies of digital books in Braille format through Talking Books. A description of these linked collections and services are listed below.
Once you have signed up for Kansas Talking Books services, browse the collection on your computer, laptop or mobile device, then order. Anyone can browse the collection. Only registered Kansas Talking Book patrons, with username and password, can order items.
We offer a variety of audiobooks for patrons including Braille and Audio Reading Downloads or "BARD" resources, and Digital Talking Book cartridges, Bookshare and CloudLibrary.
Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) offers more than 150,000 accessible titles for a variety of devices and is a service of the National Library Services for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS). BARD users must be current, active Kansas Talking Books patrons, have a valid email address and internet connection.
The Talking Books Division, National Library Service (NLS) and NFB-NEWSLINE® offer local and national magazines and newspapers across a variety of topics and ages. NLS offers more than 90 magazines as either cartridges or braille hard copies or through BARD. Talking Books staff also produce local audio magazines with a focus on living in Kansas and topics of interest to Kansans.
If you are interested in music or movies, we can help. Connect to the expansive NLS music catalog with Talking Books and movies through our audio-described movie selections. This collection continues to grow and features recent releases and old favorites.
You can access Braille books and eReaders, Braille magazines and a Braille calendar with Kansas Talking Books.
Talking Books provides machines and cartridges with books and magazines for free to our patrons. Click this page for basic information about equipment available from Talking Books like Digital Talking Books Machines, Braille eReaders and accessories, and third-party suppliers to help all Kansans live the life they want.
Know someone who struggles to read because of blindness, low vision or other challenges? The State Library can help with this free program to help Kansans access hundreds of newspapers, magazines, weather and job alerts; and more by phone, mobile app or smart speaker. Email KTB@ks.gov or call 800-362-0699 today.
NFB-NEWSLINE now offers a limited access account for children! The NFB-NEWSLINE limited access account provides a structured set of materials and features recommended for children twelve years old and under. Currently, the limited access account type can only be accessed via the touch-tone phone access method. Email KTB@ks.gov or call 800-362-0699 today.
Content for Subscribers of the NFB-NEWSLINE Limited Access Account (August 2025):
• National Federation of the Blind Channel
• Their state specific local channel
• State publications, including their state newspapers
• Animal Tales
• Girl’s Life
• Highlights
• J-14
• National Geographic for Kids
• Stone Soup
• Additional services: retail ads, TV listings, job listings
Kansas Talking Books provides free library services to Kansans of ALL ages:
Who are blind.
Who have limited vision.
Who have difficulty holding a book due to stroke, accident, neuromuscular disorder, or many other causes.
Who have been diagnosed with dyslexia or another perceptual or reading disability.
Who are either permanently or temporarily unable to read printed works to substantially the same degree as a person without a print disability.
Download the application or call 800-362-0699 to request one. Return the application by email to KTB@ks.gov or postal mail to 1 Kellogg Circle, PO Box 4055, Emporia KS 66801.
Talking Books staff will contact you within a month after sending you material and equipment to ensure the service meets your needs. Changes to service or updates to your account can be made at any time.
