Library Services - Library Materials for Persons with Visual Disabilities

Descriptive video recordings (DVSs), large type books, books on tape or CD, and downloadable audiobooks are available from the Library. Each of these is described below, followed by instructions on how to search for them in the Library's online catalog. At the bottom of the page, information is provided on items from the State Library. If you need assistance, please ask Library Staff, call (831) 420-5730 or email our Reference Department.

Descriptive Video Recordings (DVS)

In DVS videos the action is described verbally in between the dialog. Nearly 300 DVS videos for adults and young people are available.

To see a list in the Library's Catalog:

• Connect to the online catalog and type in the search box DVS or descriptive video recording. On the search results page there will be a list on the right hand side in which you can refine your results. Under "Target Audience" you can limit your results to either Juvenile or Adult.

Large type books

Print in these books is enlarged to make reading easier for persons with partial vision. More than 8000 large type books are available, including more than 450 books for children.

To see a list in the Library's Catalog:

• Connect to the online catalog and type in the search box large type. On the search results page there will be a list on the right hand side in which you can refine your results. Under "Target Audience" you can limit your results to either Juvenile or Adult. You may also limit your results by several other criteria.

To limit your search to a specific author, title, or subject:

• Connect to the online catalog. In the search box type large type and include the specific author, title or subject. On the search results page there will be a list on the right hand side in which you can refine your results. Under "Target Audience" you can limit your results to either Juvenile or Adult. You may also limit your results by several other criteria.

Books on cassette or CD

Audiobooks are books that are read aloud and recorded on cassette tape or CD. More than 4,500 audiobooks are available, including many unabridged stories for young people.

To see a list in the Library's Catalog:

• Connect to the online catalog and type the specific author, title or subject in the search box. On the search results page there will be a list on the right hand side in which you can refine your results. Under "Library Format" you can limit your results to audiobooks or E-audiobooks. You can further refine your search by choosing either Juvenile or Adult under "Target Audience".

To see a list of only fiction, only non-fiction, only mysteries, etc:

• Connect to the online catalog and type audiobooks in the search box. On the search results page there will be a list on the right hand side in which you can refine your results. Under "Series" you can limit your results by fiction, non-fiction, mysteries and either cassette or CD. You can further refine your search by choosing either Juvenile or Adult under "Target Audience".

Downloadable Audio and eBooks

An eBook is an electronic version of a printed book. The Library makes electronic books, downloadable audiobooks, and downloadable music available from five sources: NetLibrary eBooks, Califa Digital Download Center, Safari Computer eBooks, Tumblebooks for Kids, and the Gale Virtual Reference Library.

• All downloadable audio and eBooks can be found in the Library Catalog. Search for them just as you would any other library materials — by title, author, subject, or keyword. Under "Library Format" you can limit your results to audiobooks or E-audiobooks. You can further refine your search by choosing either Juvenile or Adult under "Target Audience". See Downloadable Audio and eBooks for more information.

Additional Materials from the California State Library's Braille and Talking Book Collection

The California State Library loans braille, cassette and talking books, magazines and playback equipment to northern Californians unable to read conventional print. Application forms for this service are available at any branch, or through Senior Outreach at (831) 420-5653.

Available at these branch libraries:

• Available at all branches

Last updated by ann on Feb. 12, 2009