Worcester Talking Book Library Achieves Certification to Provide Audio Materials Nationally

The Worcester Talking Book Library is making waves in the accessibility community with their recent achievement of BARD certification. This certification allows the library to provide audio materials to a national audience, expanding their reach beyond Massachusetts residents with visual or physical disabilities.

The BARD service, offered through the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled at the Library of Congress, is a free digital service that offers hundreds of thousands of audio and electronic braille versions of reading and music material. By contributing to BARD, the Worcester Talking Book Library is not only enhancing their own offerings but also supporting a nationwide network of readers with disabilities.

The first audiobook submitted by the WTBL is already available on BARD, showcasing the library’s commitment to providing diverse and engaging materials for their patrons. This achievement is just the beginning, as the library is working to curate a collection of local books and is seeking volunteers to help record these works.

With BARD accessible to U.S. residents and American citizens abroad, the Worcester Talking Book Library is now able to reach a wider audience than ever before. Materials can be downloaded and used on smart devices, making it easier for individuals with disabilities to access the reading and music material they love.

As the library continues to expand its offerings and reach, the impact of their work on the accessibility community is sure to be felt nationwide. Congratulations to the Worcester Talking Book Library on this exciting achievement!