Talking Book Library - Services

The Talking Book Library offers a full range of library services including reference on disability issues, free loan of videos with audio descriptions for the visually impaired, low vision aids and talking computers for in-house use and demonstration, and the like. Call the library at (727) 441-9958 for more information. If you reside in the 941 area code, you may reach the library toll-free by calling (866) 619-9568.

Service Tips
The following brief tips should add to your enjoyment of talking books and make it easier for staff to serve you effectively.

• Please direct all requests for books and magazines to the Pinellas Talking Book Library. The return address listed on the back of your bimonthly Talking Book Topics catalog is for a national distribution center that does not handle client services.
• Strive to maintain at least 50 requests at the library so that we can send you books from your list consistently.
• Bring the cassette book machine to the phone if possible when you call with machine problems.
• Keep the library informed of any address changes or if you desire to stop or resume mailing books.
• If a cassette tape malfunctions, place a rubber band around the tape and place it writing side down in the mailing container. Call the library to request another copy of the tape if you wish to finish the story.

Consult the service tips section of our quarterly newsletter Reading Is For Everyone for other suggestions.

Reader Advisory
What happens when you have exhausted all the books in our collection by your favorite author? The library staff is trained in reader advisory techniques to help you find books and authors with characteristics similar to those you have enjoyed in the past.

Assistive Devices (AD)
People with disabilities have options for adapting computers and telecommunications devices to their needs. The Talking Book Library has assistive devices available for demonstration in the library and access to print and electronic information on AD products.

Summer Reading Program
Children to 13 years of age are encouraged to participate in the Florida Library Youth Program through talking books. We adapt program materials for participants and identify cassette and braille books that fit summer reading themes.

BiFolkal Kits
A "party-in-a-bag", BiFolkal Kits allow activity directors to present stimulating multimedia programs to nursing home or assisted living facility residents. The Library will also loan a slide projector to be used with BiFolkal kit slides.

Music Appreciation
The National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped maintains a music section that clients can reach directly via a toll-free number. Recorded music is not available; however, musical scores in large print and braille, instruction for voice, piano, guitar, and other instruments on cassette, and related materials are included in the collection. Call the Music Section at 1-800-424-8567, and press or say 1.

Magazines
Library users may subscribe to popular magazines, such as Sports Illustrated, Good Housekeeping, and Ebony, plus magazines recorded on cassette by the Bureau of Braille and Talking Book Library Services in Daytona Beach. Contact the library for more details.

Playaways
Playaway audio books are pre-loaded pocketsize digital books designed for people who want to simply turn on the device, listen, and enjoy! The book already has been loaded on the device, so there is no need to download software, download content, or transfer content to the portable playback device. We will circulate one player per patron at a time. To order a Playaway, please call the Library at 727-441-9958 or 1-866-619-9568 (within the 941 area code).