Talking Book Program Loan Policy
 

Related Links
Getting Started with the Talking Book Program
National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Disabled

All materials and equipment are loaned to patrons and must be returned as described in this policy.

Who Can Borrow?
•    Only active, eligible borrowers may check out materials. Do not share items with others.
•    To keep your account active, borrow at least one (1) book or magazine yearly (digital or physical).

Ending Your Service?
•    Call us to let us know.
•    Return all materials immediately if you no longer wish to use TBP services.

Damaged, Broken, or Defective Items?
•    Call us to let us know.
•    Return defective materials to TBP right away.
•    All returns are free! No postage required.

Late or Lost Items?
•    Lost Mailing Container? Contact TBP for a free label/envelope.
•    Lost a Book? Notify TBP so we can remove it from your account.
•    Renewals: Books can be renewed once. Re-borrow the same title anytime!
•    No late fees for overdue, lost, or damaged items.
•    However, repeated issues (e.g., losing items, not returning them) may suspend your borrowing privileges.

BOOKS AND MAGAZINES

Loan Details
•    Loan Period: 60 days for books, magazines, and games.
•    Start Date: Loan period begins when the item leaves the library. Allow ~1 week for mail delivery and returns.

Returning Books and Magazines
•    Flat Mailing Card: Flip it over to reveal TBP’s return address.
•    Folded Mailing Card: Remove and discard the card. TBP’s address is on the cartridge case.

Important Magazine Notes
•    Late Returns: May delay receipt of the next issue.
•    Braille and Large Print Magazines: Yours to keep or recycle—no need to return.

PLAYBACK EQUIPMENT

Borrowing Rules
•    Individuals: May have one (1) machine type at a time.
•    Institutions: May have multiple machines for multiple patrons, based on availability.

Care and Returns
•    Keep the original box and mailing card for future returns.
•    Never repair or modify machines. Contact TBP for help with malfunctions.
•    Return promptly if you’re no longer using the machine (others may be waiting!)

TBP Recalls
•    TBP may ask for your machine back for maintenance, audits, or inactivity.
•    Failure to return a recalled machine may suspend your service.

MISUSE OF TBP SERVICE

Please don’t misuse or abuse your service. It is our pleasure to serve the patrons of the Talking Book Program. Please treat our devices and staff with the care and respect we afford you.

Your borrowing privileges may be suspended if you:
•    Damage or deface machines or materials.
•    Repeatedly lose devices or materials.
•    Use obscene, harassing, degrading or threatening language or behavior toward TBP staff.
•    Loan books, magazines, or equipment to others.
If it appears that you have misused service, our staff will discuss the problem with you by telephone and send you a letter that states the problem and provides an opportunity for you to respond.

Extreme violations, such as threatening staff, will result in immediate suspension without notice.

HELPFUL CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE TALKING BOOK PROGRAM:

General information, order books or to report a problem: 1-800-252-9605

Toll-free information line: 1-866-388-6397

Disability Information and Referral Center: 1-800-252-9605 or dirc@tsl.texas.gov

Program Engagement and Outreach: 1-512-463-5452 or tbp.info@tsl.texas.gov

To send email to anyone in the Talking Book Program: tbp.services@tsl.texas.gov

To ask for assistance using BARD: 1-800-252-9605 or tbp.bard@tsl.texas.gov

Ask a librarian: 1-800-252-9605 or tbp.ral@tsl.texas.gov

Talking Book Program website: www.texastalkingbooks.org

TBP blog: www.tsl.texas.gov/texastalkingbooks/

TBP book club schedule: www.tsl.texas.gov/tbp/tbpbookclub/index.html

Talking Book Voices podcast: www.tsl.texas.gov/podcasts

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If you have any questions regarding your service or about any of the books, magazines, or equipment that you have received, please call the Talking Book Program at (512) 463-5458 or 1-800-252-9605. We will be glad to help you in any way that we can.

Copies of this publication are available in alternative formats upon request.