Skip to Main Content
State Library of Kansas
Ask Us Visit Us

Talking Books

Kansas Talking Books is a free and personalized service in support of eligible Kansans to ensure that all may read. | State Library of Kansas

Eligibility for Talking Books Service

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.

Sign Up for Service

1. Download the application or call 1-800-362-0699 to request one. 

2. Complete the application with your information and certifying authority signature. Applications can be completed online, list the certifying authority's contact information in lieu of signature, then save the file.

  • For minors to receive and use National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS) services and devices, including those offered by Kansas Talking Books, parental acknowledgment is required on the application.
  • Certifying authority includes doctors, optometrists, therapists, librarians, registered nurses, case workers and educators.
  • Certifying authority cannot be the applicant or relative of the applicant.

3. Submit application to Kansas Talking Books.
Email saved application file or scan of handwritten application to KTB@ks.gov.
Or mail your application to: Kansas Talking Books, 1 Kellogg Circle, P.O. Box 4055, Emporia, KS 66801.

Incomplete applications or those lacking necessary signatures are returned and can be resubmitted once complete.

4. Talking Books will contact applicant by email or phone, then send information about materials, how to access catalogs and select material, instructions for Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) and unique Talking Books programs.

5. Reading material and equipment is delivered directly to patrons via U. S. Postal Service and digitally through BARD. 

Within a month after receiving material and equipment, Talking Books staff will contact you to ensure the service meets your needs; providing patrons with material they enjoy is important. Changes to service or updates to account can be made at any time.