As a Braille Institute Library patron, you’ll gain access to thousands of titles in a range of formats, from braille to large print to audio books. It’s easy to become a patron, and once you’re in, your membership lasts your lifetime! Apply today and dive into your next reading journey.
Apply for Membership
Complete the online application or use our simple PDF application which is less than 2 pages long — both require verification of vision status. If using the PDF version, mail it to the address on the application, email it to bils@brailleinstitute.org, or fax it to us at 323-662-2440. Solicitud en Español.
Your Library Guides
Reader Advisors
Reader Advisors are key to library support services. Whether you need help with your application or you’ve been a member for years, they are there for you. They help you choose titles, find the perfect playback machine, navigate Library Services, and more. You can count on them throughout your time with us.
Am I Eligible?
To be eligible for membership and receive books for the blind and visually impaired, you must live in Southern California (Imperial, Kern, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Ventura counties) or parts of Central California (Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties) and meet at least one of the following requirements:
- Are Legally Blind: This means your vision is 20/200 or less in your better eye with corrective lenses. You are also legally blind if the widest diameter of your visual field is 20 degrees or less in your better eye. Simply, you are legally blind if you cannot read the big “E” on an eye chart at 20 feet.
- Have a Visual Impairment: You are unable to read standard printed materials without special aids or devices other than regular glasses.
- Have a Physical Impairment: You are unable to read or use standard printed materials as a result of physical limitations.
- Have a Reading or Learning Disability: You have a condition, such as dyslexia, arthritis or brain trauma that prevents you from being able to read printed material in a normal manner.
A qualified professional must document your eligibility on the application form. Family members are not eligible to certify your eligibility. Qualified professionals include a/an:
- Physician
- Nurse
- Optometrist
- Therapist
- Hospital or nursing-home professional
- Social worker
- Librarian
What Happens Next?
We’ll Call You
We usually review your application within three (3) days of receiving it. Once you’re approved to receive books for the blind and visually impaired, we’ll give you a call.
You’ll Talk With a Reader Advisor
On your first phone call, your Reader Advisor will ask you about your reading preferences, answer any questions, and guide you through the steps to get your first books ordered. You’ll also receive a Patron ID Number you can use to check out books.
Begin Reading!
We send books out through the U.S. Post Office within two days of receiving your order.
Did You Know?
Library members can also download books straight to their phone through our BARD program
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get help with my application?
If you have trouble with the application form, please call the Library’s toll-free line at 1-800-808-2555 or visit us at a location near you. We will be happy to help you in any way we can.
If you have trouble downloading the application form, call us at 1-800-808-2555 and we will send it to you by standard mail.
How much does it cost?
Just like everything else at Braille Institute, it’s FREE to become a Library patron.
How long can I keep a book?
What happens to my membership if I move?
What if I don’t live in Southern or Central California?
If you live outside of Southern or Central California, we can help you find a cooperating National Library Service (NLS) in your area. Call us at 1-800-808-2555.
Love the Library?
We’re able to provide free Library services because of our donors. Find out how you can help.
Contact the Library
Email: bils@brailleinstitute.org
Phone: 1-800-808-2555 or 323-660-3880
Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM PT
Lisa Lepore
Director of Library Services
“Our goal is to provide a beautiful, comfortable, intellectually dynamic 21st century library for those who are blind, visually impaired, or have print disabilities.”
