As students head back to the classroom this August, the Texas Talking Book Program is encouraging families and educators to take advantage of a free resource designed to support students with dyslexia and other qualifying reading disabilities.
The program provides eligible Texans with free access to more than 180,000 audiobooks and audio magazines, all narrated by human readers. Officials say the service can help improve literacy skills, boost reading confidence and encourage a lifelong love of reading.
Dyslexia affects an estimated one in five students, and research has shown that regular use of audiobooks can increase reading engagement while supporting academic success.
“Every student deserves the chance to fall in love with a story, regardless of how they read it,” said Alicia Topolnycky, engagement specialist for the Texas Talking Book Program. “As families prepare for the new school year, we want them to know that a free, nationwide library of audiobooks is available with a simple application.”
Any Texas resident with a qualifying reading disability, including dyslexia, may be eligible to enroll. There is no minimum age requirement, and membership lasts a lifetime. Applications may be certified by educators, school personnel, dyslexia specialists or medical providers. No medical records or insurance information are required.
The library includes books for readers of all ages and grade levels, featuring classroom classics as well as popular fiction and nonfiction titles. Materials can be accessed through the BARD mobile app or by using a free Digital Talking Book Machine that is mailed directly to participants’ homes.
Program officials noted there are no waitlists, due dates, late fees or charges for lost materials.
The program also supports educators. Under Texas Senate Bill 2075, school districts are required to notify families of students with dyslexia, or those at risk for dyslexia, about the Texas Talking Book Program. Teachers can also apply for a free School Classroom Account to provide students with additional reading resources.
Families and educators can find application information, certification requirements and additional program details online or by contacting the Texas Talking Book Program at 1-800-252-9605 or by email at tbp.services@tsl.texas.gov.
The Texas Talking Book Program provides free library services for Texans of all ages who are blind or have a visual, physical or reading disability.