TSLA is now open to the public by appointment only
Patrons are encouraged to continue to use TSLA's services remotely
To make an appointment or to request remote assistance, call 615-741-2764 or email ask@tsla.libanswers.com
You may also chat with a librarian for reference assistance
The 2020 Summer Reading Program podcast series has launched!
Call us at (800) 342-3308 for more information.
That All May Read
A free library program of over 150,000 recorded, large print, and braille materials available to residents of Tennessee who are not able to use standard print materials due to a visual or physical disability. The Tennessee Library for Accessible Books and Media (TLABM) partners with the National Library Service at the Library of Congress (NLS) to administer this free library service.
BARD Book and Magazine Download Service
E-mail a Reference Question to a Librarian
InfoEyes is a question and answer service for people with a visual impairment or other print limitation. Ask a question about anything!
Please note there are multiple pages for each application. All pages should be completed before sending applications to the library.
You may mail completed applications to:
Tennessee Library for Accessible Books and Media
403 Seventh Avenue North
Nashville, TN 37243
Or, you may fax them to (615) 532-8856.
Or, you may scan and e-mail them to tlabm.tsla@tn.gov.
Each application must have the signature of a certifying authority. Please see the information on the application form for information on who may certify applications for service.
Spanish applications may be obtained by contacting the library at (800) 342-3308.
Books and Magazines
BARD Downloadable Audio Books and Magazines
Download audio and digital braille book and magazine titles for use with Digital Talking Book machines, iOS devices, Android devices, braille embossers, and refreshable braille devices. This service is available to registered patrons of the Tennessee Library for Accessible Books and Media only.
Find books and magazines in braille or audio from the National Library Service for Blind and Physically Handicapped:
Large Print Catalogs
Large print catalogs are available by contacting the Library for Accessible Books and Media.
For Patrons With Last Names Starting A-D
Erin Lankford
Tel: (615) 741-3916 or (800) 342-3308
Fax: (615) 532-8856
Email Erin Lankford
For Patrons With Last Names Starting E-K
Cathy Bale
Tel: (615) 741-5836 or (800) 342-3308
Fax: (615) 532-8856
Email Cathy Bale
For Patrons With Last Names Starting L-R
Ben Wicks
Tel: (615) 741-5838 or (800) 342-3308
Fax: (615) 532-8856
Email Ben Wicks
For Patrons With Last Names Starting S-Z
Rebecca Melvin
Tel: (615) 741-5839 or (800) 342-3308
Fax: 615.532.8856
Email Rebecca Melvin
What is provided?
The library service loans recorded, large print and braille books and magazines, music scores in large print and braille and special playback equipment. The TLABM book collection of over 50,000 titles includes popular fiction and nonfiction, best sellers, classics, history, biographies, religious literature, children's books and books in foreign language. There are over 70 popular magazines available. Go to Available Materials to find out more.
How do I play the talking books?
Special playback equipment is loaned to patrons who use the library service. Books and magazines in the TLABM collection are recorded at a slower speed than conventional recordings and the books require special players. Players are mailed to patrons postage free. The library repairs and replaces equipment as necessary. For patrons who wish to purchase their own equipment, a vendor list is available.
How do I start the service?
You must first complete an application for service and send it to the Tennessee library. All states provide the service for their residents.
How do I get the books?
All special library materials--books, magazines and playback equipment--are circulated through the mail postage free. Patrons must borrow books each year to remain eligible for the service.
How do I know what titles are available?
Bimonthly magazines will tell you about newly released books and related library services: Talking Book Topics and Braille Book Review. You may also order general catalogs. You can always call the library to ask about authors and titles. The National Library Service catalog is searchable online.
Tennessee Secretary of State
Tre Hargett
© 2017-2019 Tennessee Secretary of State | Web and Social Media Policies
