Eligibility

Library for the Blind and Print Disabled

The Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (LBPD) provides library materials and services to individuals who cannot read standard print due to visual or physical disabilities. The following people are eligible for service:

  • Individuals who are blind
  • Individuals who have other visual impairments that makes it difficult or impossible to read items in print
  • Individuals who have physical disabilities that makes it hard to hold or manipulate a book or to focus or move the eyes to read items in print
  • Individuals who have perceptual or reading disabilities

All applications must be certified by any of the following competent authorities:

  • doctors of medicine or osteopathy
  • ophthalmologists
  • optometrists
  • psychologists
  • registered nurses
  • therapists
  • professional staff of institutions like educators, social workers, counselors, rehab teachers and reading specialists.

Reading material and equipment may also be loaned to institutions who serve individuals who meet eligibility criteria such as nursing homes, hospitals, and schools for the blind. Students at public and private schools must be certified on an individual basis.

To qualify, applicants must be residents of the United States, including territories, insular possessions, and the District of Columbia, or American citizens living abroad.

For all LBPD services, preference shall be given at all times to eligible persons who have been honorably discharged from the armed forces of the United States.

Do you meet the eligibility requirements?

Apply for free service