Darien Library is a hub of the Connecticut Library for Accessible Books (CT LAB). The Library helps folks learn about free services offered by CT LAB to make reading and literacy possible for all of Connecticut's residents. Assistance is available through audio or braille formats.
Talking Book Machines
This is done through the use of a special device called a Talking Book Machine. Readers place an order for books and magazines they would like to read through CT LAB. The reader then has a cartridge mailed to their home which contains digital copies of those books and magazines. The cartridge is then placed within the Talking Book Machine to be listened aloud.
Services Offered By CT LAB
From their website,
"CT LAB lends books and magazines in audio and braille formats, for free, to any Connecticut resident who is unable to read regular print due to a visual, reading, or physical disability."
Services Offered By Darien Library
Speak with a librarian about CT LAB, pick up an application, and borrow a talking book machine to learn how it works.
How to Apply
Any Connecticut resident who is unable to read due to a visual, perceptual, reading, or physical disability.
There are three ways to get an application:
- Stop by Darien Library to pick up a CT LAB application on the first floor
- Call the Library and we can mail one at 203-669-5236.
- Download a PDF file to print out and mail yourself.
A medical professional, educator, psychologist or counselor.
Once the application is complete you can return to Darien Library and we are happy to send it directly via email for faster processing.
Or you can scan and email a pdf to: csl.AccessibleBooks@ct.gov
Connecticut Library for Accessible Books
786 South Main St.
Middletown, CT 06457
Once your application is received, you should expect to hear back from CTLAB within 7-10 days.
About the Collection & How to Borrow
The NLS collection includes nonfiction, fiction, bestsellers, magazines, and the NLS music section.
Titles are available in a variety of world languages.
Titles are available in audio format and in eBraille.
The collection is intended to appeal to readers of all ages.
Check the online catalog of the National Library Service Catalog for the Blind and Print Disabled to find a title you would like to request.
You may also use the BARD app to find titles to listen to on your own device.
Call CT LAB at 860-704-2220 or email csl.AccessibleBooks@ct.gov.
You may pick up and return Talking Book cartridges and players at any of the hub library locations. To schedule pick up at Darien Library, please contact Mary-Beth at mmason@darienlibrary.org.
Talking Book cartridges and players may be returned to any of the hub libraries with out prior arrangement.
This is up to the reader. Contact CT LAB with your requests when you are ready to borrow new titles. A cartridge can hold up to 10 books.
About the Player
After your application is approved, CT LAB will contact you to discuss how you prefer to access resources. CT LAB can mail a digital talking book machine and book resource materials directly to you. Some readers choose to use the free BARD application on their own digital device.
You can borrow a digital talking book machine device from Darien Library to try out. We have several available and these can be checked out from the Help Desk in the Research Room.
Call Darien Library for a Book-a-Librarian session at 203-669-5236 and we will show you how to use the device.
Contact CT LAB at csl.AccessibleBooks@ct.gov or call 860-704-2220 for assistance in obtaining a free replacement.
You may also call Darien Library for assistance at 203-669-5236.