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National Library Service For Blind And Print Disabled US Citizens Abroad

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If you are a United States citizen living abroad who has a temporary or permanent visual impairment, low vision, a physical disability that prevents you from holding a book, or another print disability, you may be eligible for a free program from the Library of Congress.

Written exclusively for Expat Network by Donna Koh, Overseas Librarian,  National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled

 

The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS)—which serves U.S. citizens living abroad as well as residents living within the United States —has tens of thousands of books in audio and braille that can be instantly downloaded or mailed to you at no cost. NLS has a mobile app that makes it easy to play books on your personal iOS or Android device, or you can request a free talking-book player when you sign up. NLS’s extensive collection includes titles from bestsellers to classics, dozens of popular magazines in audio and braille, and the world’s largest collection of accessible musical scores and music instruction and appreciation materials.

If an age-related eye condition, decreasing vision or another physical disability is preventing you from enjoying the books and magazines you love, we are here to help you access them in a format that is suitable to your needs. Join half a million NLS patrons who are already benefiting from our free library service.

To learn more and find out how to get started, email the NLS Overseas Librarian at  NLSoverseas@loc.gov