Digital Talking Book Machines (DTBM) are free to patrons. DTBMs are portable players for audiobooks stored on Digital Talking Book Cartridges. The machines can run on battery or plug power. A USB port allows the machines to play BARD downloads.
The DTBM cartridge is the size of a cassette, can contain multiple books in their entirety. Cartridges are sent in the mail and marked as "FREE MATTER FOR THE BLIND OR PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED."
Kansas Talking Books offers patrons on-ear headphones.
Some patrons will find using a USB Breath Switch helps to navigate Digital Talking Book Machines and are provided by the NLS.
The NLS provides high-volume players for readers with certified hearing impairments. To ensure the safety of patrons, these players are only issued by NLS after receipt of written certification by a physician or licensed audiologist. Contact Kansas Talking Books for an application.
The NLS has information regarding third-party or commercial players that are approved and compatible with NLS content.
Kansas Talking Book patrons can request digital braille books and Braille eReaders from Kansas Talking Books. The eReader is Braille Audio Reading Download (BARD) compatible. To request digital braille books or an eReader call 800-662-5540.
The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) partners with Talking Books services to distribute currency readers known as iBill. The iBill is a small electronic device that can identify United States paper currency. It is small enough to fit on a keychain. The BEP will provide one iBill to interested Talking Books patrons. Contact Kansas Talking Books to request an iBill.
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.
