GLS: Georgia Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled

About GLS

Through Georgia Library Service (GLS) for the Blind and Print Disabled, Georgia Public Library Service provides library services for individuals who are blind or whose physical abilities require the use of books and magazines in audio, braille or other adapted formats.

GLS provides vital reading materials in accessible formats. Individuals are eligible if they are blind, low vision, or physically unable to hold a book and turn the page. GLS services are also available to those with reading disabilities such as dyslexia.

Could someone you know benefit from reading materials in an accessible format? Learn more about Georgia Library Service (GLS) for the Blind and Print Disabled today.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE SERVICE?

• Anyone who is unable to read or handle standard printed materials as a result of temporary or permanent visual or physical disability.
• Persons who are legally blind or cannot see well enough or focus long enough to read standard print, even with glasses.
• Persons who are unable to hold or turn pages of print books.
• Persons who are certified by a medical doctor as having a reading disability.Application for Service (PDF)

All potential patrons must enroll in GLS services and have their application signed by a certifying authority. That certifying authority must be someone who can attest to the condition that is making a person eligible. This is typically a physician, a nurse, professional caregiver, therapist or educator– sorry relatives cannot certify people. A librarian can certify patrons as well.

WHAT DOES GLS for the Blind and Print Disabled Offer?

• Access to a collection of narrator-read audiobooks
• Access to the large print collection from the entire PINES network
• Access to the Bookshare collection in a variety of formats including text-to-speech audio, braille or highlight text
• Access to embossed and digital braille
• A digital talking book machine that is very simple to use
• Free postage to return materials
• Telephone support from GLS Reader Advisors who can help patrons select the books that they want to read
• An app for instant access to audiobooks for mobile devices for those who are comfortable with technology
• Access to a collection of audio described popular movies on DVD or Blu-Ray
• Remote programming include book clubs, children’s summer reading programs, peer support groups

Search the Catalog for Books

Search the Catalog for Magazines

Search the Catalog for Music

• BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download):Once you have been accepted as a talking book patron, you can download books and magazines directly to your computer from the NLS BARD website and store them on a flash drive that will play in your digital book machine.  Access to the BARD website is restricted to eligible readers.  You will need a login ID and password.  If you do not have them, review the criteria for participation in the BARD Application Instructions on the BARD website and request an account if you qualify. The link to BARD is https://nlsbard.loc.govTutorial videos: How to Download from BARD BARD “How-To” Series, provided by The Library of Congress

Georgia Library Service (GLS) for the Blind and Print Disabled
2872 Woodstock Boulevard
Suite 250
Atlanta, GA 30341
PHONE: 404.235.7200
FAX: 404-657-1459