Deemed essential during COVID-19, Georgia Library Service (GLS) for the blind and print disabled did not close their doors. With access to the library’s user-friendly online platform, and an amazing team of knowledgeable staff and volunteers, patrons considered GLS a lifeline during a very difficult time. Federally funded through the National Library Service, GLS programs are available to all Georgia applicants who meet eligibility.
GLS is committed to accessibility so that all may read. GLS is a free braille and talking book library service for individuals with temporary or permanent low vision, blindness, or a physical disability that prevents reading or holding the printed page. GLS meets people where they are, offering books in the way they need - in braille or audio formats, mailed to their home for free, or instantly downloadable. Access to free materials is available to eligible patrons regardless of age, economic circumstances, or technical expertise. Books in the talking book collection begin at the preschool level through adults of all ages.
An electric braille reader, a talking book reader, and BARD - Braille and Audio Reading Download - are just a few examples of what is available through GLS to people who read differently. Once eligibility is determined, GLS patrons receive services at no cost for their lifetime, and benefits transfer with the patron if they move to another state. The goal of GLS is to send the patron the talking book player equipment and an initial shipment of books within seven working days of receiving a properly certified application.
Eligibility must be certified by one of the following: Library staff or Librarian, Doctor of Medicine, doctor of osteopathy, ophthalmologist, optometrist, psychologist, registered nurse, therapist, or professional staff of hospitals, institutions, and public or welfare agencies (such as an educator, social worker, case worker, counselor, rehabilitation teacher, certified reading specialist, school psychologist, superintendent, or school media specialist).
GLS continues to expand its resources and works hard to reach greater numbers of eligible readers across Georgia. GLS Outreach Manager Gina Martin believes, “Everyone knows someone who can benefit from this program.” In addition to the amazing adaptive technology available for use at the library or at home, GLS provides a peer support group, book clubs, and technology training classes. They also schedule special events throughout the year, including bingo, poetry slams, talent shows, and more.
Gina proudly shares the tremendous impact GLS has on the lives of patrons. "There are so many success stories with GLS. A patron who was born blind received her degree to fulfill her dream of being a preschool teacher, and we have people who have reconnected to their love of reading." Gina continues, "GLS improves the quality of life for our patrons and their loved ones. Their loved ones find joy in seeing the love of reading being fulfilled for their family member."
Summer reading programs are a big part of every public library, and GLS organizes an annual schedule of summer reading activities for patrons of all ages. Large-print books are available through a partnership with Georgia’s PINES libraries. (PINES, or Public Information Network for Electronic Services, is Georgia's “borderless library” system that allows PINES card holders free access to books and other materials in 300 library branches and affiliated service outlets throughout the state.)
Requests are managed through GLS Atlanta where a Reader Advisor will request the large print title and mail it to the patron. New to the list of programs at GLS is the 2024 Winter Reading Program.
Gina hopes that people will continue to connect with GLS and find joy in their services. "GLS is one of the best-kept secrets, and has been around for more than 93 years." You can find more about GLS programs, as well as an enrollment application and a calendar of events when you visit their website at gls.georgialibraries.org. GLS Reader Advisors are available Monday - Friday from 8 am-5 pm by calling 1-800-248-6701. They will answer questions, assist with book selections, and provide training on the use of the products and services. Georgia Library Service is located in Atlanta, but our own Fayette County Library is a PINES library and can help you throughout the process.
"GLS meets people where they are, offering books in the way they need."
"Everyone knows someone who can benefit from this program."
