Braille Institute Library FAQs

Why are some of the tapes I receive missing or damaged?

We understand that talking-book cassettes are often damaged in some way. The circulation department processes 5,000 returned books on tape every day. They manage to check approximately 80 percent of the books that are returned. If you receive any damaged cassettes, please call Tape Duplication at 1-800-808-2555 or e-mail us at readers@braillelibrary.org and we will be happy to send you a replacement cassette.

What do I do with damaged tapes?

If you receive a damaged cassette, first call for a replacement tape to be mailed to your house, then throw away the damaged cassette. If you are not particularly interested in reading the book, we still ask that you request a replacement tape. This way, you will mail back a complete working book.

Why is the line always busy when I try to call in my book order?

The Main Library in Los Angeles has eight available lines, and they are at their busiest on Mondays and Fridays. If you have trouble getting through, try calling the Braille Library Branch that is closest to you to place your order:

Main Branch: 800) 808-2555 or (323) 660-3880
Santa Barbara: (805) 682-6222, Ext. 8318
Rancho Mirage: (760) 321-1111, Ext. 6115
Orange County: (714) 821-5000, Ext. 2126
San Diego: (858) 452-1111, Ext. 5011

When is the best time for me to call in a book order?

The best time to call in a book order tends to vary. The best time of day to call is in the afternoon, Tuesday through Thursday. Around the winter holidays, the phones are especially busy with people trying to get books before they go on vacation.

Is there any way to see what books are available on the Internet?

Braille Institute's Library now provides access to its complete collection of books online. Peruse our online catalog.

The National Library Service (NLS) also has a Web site, which lists all titles that are available nationally.

All of the titles available through Braille Institute's Library start with DB for digital books, RC for cassettes or BR for braille. If you find a title that you would like that is only available through another location, you can contact our Reference Librarian, who will be happy to order the title through inter-library loan. Users are responsible for returning inter-library loans in a timely manner.

You can contact our Reference Librarian at 1-800-808-2555 or by e-mail.

Why haven't I received any books in two weeks?

Our books are sent within two days of the order being placed, based on their availability. Once they leave our facility, we have no way of tracking their course. Transit time is typically 5 to 10 working days but can take longer during holidays. If you are not receiving your books regularly or in a timely fashion, please call your local post office.

How long can I keep a book?

We ask that you return books on cassette after three months and digital books after one month. If you need to take a little longer, we will not penalize you for that. If you have a book for over a year, you will receive a letter asking its status.

Do you need my address when I order materials?

When you call in your book order and speak with a Reader Advisor, please give them your last name, your first name, your phone number and the city you live in. Our computers are able to draw up your account on that information alone. If you call and get our voice mail, please leave your name, the city you live in, your telephone number and your requests.

What if my address changes?

Please call us if you have a change of address so we can update your Library account and send your books promptly. Braille Institute Library Services only services patrons in the Southern California area. If you are moving out of our service area, we can arrange to have your account forwarded to a cooperating NLS library that provides services at your new address. We will also provide you with the library's address and telephone number. You can bring books and your cassette player with you.

Note: Please let us know at least one week in advance before you move