Austin, TX – This Veterans Day, the Texas Talking Book Program (TBP) invites veterans and the groups that serve them to learn about its free library for Texans with visual, physical or reading disabilities. Members can choose from more than 180,000 audiobooks and audio magazines, plus braille and large print books.

More than 1.5 million veterans live in Texas. Many have vision loss, a traumatic brain injury (TBI), limb loss or another condition that makes print hard to read. Eligible honorably discharged veterans receive priority service through TBP, as authorized under federal law.

"No veteran should have to give up the books they love," said Alicia Topolnycky, TBP Engagement Specialist. "From mysteries to memoirs to military history, our library is free, and veterans go to the front of the line."

Individuals who cannot comfortably read standard print because of blindness, low vision, a physical disability or a reading disability, including from TBI, qualify for the program. A VA doctor, therapist, social worker or Veterans Service Officer may certify an application. Applicants do not need to provide medical records or proof of health insurance. Members never pay for books, players, postage or late fees. TBP mails books to members’ homes, or members can download them instantly with the free BARD Mobile app.

TBP’s outreach team provides free presentations to staff and community partners at VA facilities, Veterans Service Organization posts, county veteran service offices and Texas State Veterans Homes.

Veteran-serving organizations can also become TBP Demonstration Sites. TBP sends each site a free Digital Talking Book Machine, sample audiobooks in English and Spanish, applications and promotional materials. Veterans and their families can then explore the service firsthand before applying.

To sign up, schedule an outreach presentation, or learn more, call TBP at 1-800-252-9605 (toll-free in Texas) or email tbp.services@tsl.texas.gov.

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The Texas State Library and Archives Commission provides Texans access to the information they need to be informed, productive citizens by preserving the archival record of Texas; enhancing the service capacity of public, academic and school libraries; assisting public agencies in the maintenance of their records; and meeting the reading needs of Texans with disabilities. For more information, visit www.tsl.texas.gov.