Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) Books

We’re a network library of the National Library Service. We’ve made accessing audio and digital braille titles easier than ever, and always at no cost. The Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) program allows you to download books and magazines right to your phone or computer. Get started and enjoy your favorite reads anywhere, anytime.

Unlike other audio book services, we offer free audio downloads via BARD. You can download any book title without waiting (no wait list), AND you can keep the book for as long as you need (no return date or late fees).

Get BARD Books in 3 Easy Steps

Join the Braille Institute Library

Become a patron of the Braille Institute Library if you’re not already.

How to Join

Create Your NLS Account

After you apply, you’ll receive an email with login information.

Create a NLS Account

Get Books via BARD

Once you’re approved, you can start downloading books via BARD to your device.

Apply

Using the BARD App

The easiest way to access books is through the BARD app. Get the free audio book downloads right to your Apple or Android device and listen at home or on the go.

BARD for Apple

BARD for Android

BARD in the Amazon Kindle App Store

Using BARD on Your Computer

What You Need

To read your books via BARD, you’ll need:

An internet connection
Blank cartridges and a USB cable if you are using a digital talking book player
A USB flash drive, if you are using an NLS machine
A refreshable braille display, if you are downloading e-braille titles

How to Download Titles

Each book on the BARD site has a download link. Press enter on the link to start the download process.
You will be prompted to Open or Save the file. Choose Save.
Another screen comes up, which you can navigate with your tab key to take note of where the file is being saved.
Press the spacebar on the save button to start the free audio book download.

Did You Know?

You can also listen to your local headlines, advertisements, restaurant menus, and more through our Telephone Reader program.

Reading Made Easier

You can always find additional reading tools like digital media audio players for BARD and assistive devices in our online shop.

Need Help?

Whether you need help with your application or with any part of the BARD process, our friendly Library Advisors are here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out.

Email: bils@brailleinstitute.org

Phone: 1-800-808-2555