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1. "Not allowed to checkout" or app closes & will not allow you to log back in.

Your Kansas Library eCard has expired. Any library in Kansas can renew it for you, so you may call or visit your local library or email the State Library at kslc@ks.gov

2. Android: Server error when checking out/downloading book.

Error message may include "Fulfillment Error" and "download expired" or even "Check date & time."

Date, time, and time zone are very important for communication with ebook servers! On your device, access Settings and select "Date & Time." Check these:
--Date
--Time - must be exact as possible.
--Time Zone - should be US Central Time zone for Kansas users. Do not use the same GMT -6 or -5 zone with a non-US country or city name attached. Not all countries do Daylight Savings Time or do DST on the same schedule as the US. You may need to re-check the time after fixing the time zone!

3. Windows: software won't stay open or not showing books.

This process clears the software cache in Windows. Your checkouts or holds will not be lost, they are saved on Cloud Library's servers under your library card number.

Windows 10, 7, or Vista:
1. Go to the Start Menu.
2. In the Search programs and files box, enter exactly %appdata% and hit enter on your keyboard.
3. This should pull up a list of folders. Delete the Bibliotheca folder. If there is also a 3M Cloud Library folder delete it too.
4. Once this is done, close the window you have open, and try reopening Cloud Library. You should have to log in.

Windows 8:
1. Go to the desktop area.
2. Hold down the Windows key on your keyboard (looks like a flag, usually near Alt) and press R.
3. This opens the "Run" box, enter exactly %appdata% and hit enter on your keyboard.
4. This should pull up a list of folders. Delete the Bibliotheca folder. If there is also a 3M Cloud Library folder delete it too.
5. Once this is done, close the window you have open, and reopen Cloud Library. You should have to log in.

4. Nook: Error dialog user not activated.

This is most common for people that are new to using library ebooks. The Nook did not automatically see the Adobe ebook security being used on the Cloud Library, so we are going to introduce it to Adobe security using Adobe Digital Editions.

Before doing this, close Cloud Library on your computer (to keep it out of the way) AND delete the copy of the ebook(s) from your Nook. You can transfer a fresh copy after the fix.

1. Go to the Adobe Digital Editions download page. Download & install the proper version for your computer (Windows or Mac).
2. When ADE is installed, open it. The software will see that you are already using Adobe security on Cloud Library and match it.
3. Plug your Nook into the computer. ADE will recognize it and show the name of your Nook under "Devices" on the left side.
4. ADE may have automatically updated Adobe security on the Nook when it recognized the device, but check by:
-Click the name of your Nook (under Devices) once to select it.
-Click the gear icon for the Devices area.
-This shows a menu. Select "Authorize device." If you cannot click this, then ADE did automatically update the device. If you can click it, doing so finishes the setup.

You may now close Adobe Digital Editions, reopen Cloud Library, and transfer a new copy of the book to your Nook.

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1. Checked out a book on the computer, but wanted to use it on my tablet/smartphone instead.

We recommend setting up the appropriate ereader app on your device, and downloading the book directly into that. Do not try to transfer the book from the computer to the mobile device.

Note: if you fully downloaded the book into Adobe Digital Editions on your computer, the app MUST be using the same Adobe ID as your Adobe Digital Editions for this to work. You do not need to worry about this if you just checked out the book but did not fully download.

Freading - ReDownload Book
-On your device, go to the Freading site (http://kslib.freading.com ) and login with your Kansas Library eCard.
-Go to "My Downloads." This is your checkout history.
-Tap the 'redownload' link for the book. Your browser should prompt you to open the book in the ereader app, confirm this.

Enki - Download Book
-On your device, go to the Enki site (http://ksl.enkilibrary.org) and log in with your Kansas Library eCard.
-Go to "My Account."
-Each checked out book will have a download button, tap it. Your browser should prompt you to open the book in the ereader app, confirm this.

2. Computer: book does not download to Adobe Digital Editions.

This error occurs when your computer does not realize which program is necessary to use the book file. Before proceeding, please make sure you have fully installed Adobe Digital Editions! Below is how to fix this based on the version of Windows your computer has:

Windows 8: Associate a File Type to Adobe Digital Editions
1. Open your right-side menu, and select Settings then Control Panel.
2. Go to Programs, Default Programs, and select "Make a file type always open in a specific program."
3. Find .acsm in the file extensions list. Click it one time to select it.
4. Click the "Change program" button above the list.
5. An "Open with" box will come up. Select Adobe Digital Editions from the list of programs recommended.
6. Click OK. Your ebooks should now default to opening in Adobe Digital Editions.

Windows Vista or 7: Associate File Type to Adobe Digital Editions
1. On your computer, go to Start, then Control Panel.
2. Select Programs, then Default Programs.
3. Open "Associate a file type or protocol with a program." This window may take a minute to load, it contains a lot of information.
4. Find .acsm in the file extensions list. Click it one time to select it.
5. Click the "Change program" button above the list.
6. An "Open with" box will come up. Select Adobe Digital Editions from the list of programs recommended. Note: if ADE is not listed, please double-check that it is installed on your computer, or use the "Browse" button to find and select it.
7. Click OK. Your ebooks should now default to opening in Adobe Digital Editions.

Windows XP: Associate File Type to Adobe Digital Editions
1. Open 'My Computer' and select Tools menu > Folder Options. The 'Folder Options' dialog box is displayed.
2. Select the 'File Types' tab. A list of all file types will be displayed--this may take a minute to fully generate.
3. Select '.acsm' in the file extentions list and click the 'Change' button.
4. Select 'Adobe Digital Editions' and click 'OK'. Adobe Digital Editions is now set to open ACSM files.

Mac Computers:
1. In Finder, select the Downloads folder.
2. Scroll down and find the .acsm file (this was the attempted book download).
3. Hold down the Control key, and click on the .acsm file.
4. This opens a small menu - choose "Always open with..." and set to Adobe Digital Editions.

Older Macs - if "always open with" is not an option - start as above then:
4. Select "Open" then "Other."
5. A new window opens. Select Adobe Digital Editions from the list and check the "Always open with" box.

3. Computer: my Adobe Digital Editions seems to be an older version, how do I update?

Please note that updating is optional. Older computers (such as Windows Vista or XP) should stay on Adobe Digital Editions 3, as newer versions will not work consistently on these computers.

-Make sure your current Adobe Digital Editions program is closed.
-Go to the Adobe Digital Editions download page.
-Choose the correct installer for your computer (Windows or Mac). Download & install the file as you normally would if this was new software.
-As installation nears the end, the installer it will ask permission to migrate all data from the old Adobe Digital Editions version. Say yes to this! You should not need to do anything else.

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1. Lost login information!

For (Cloud Library, Enki, Freading) your login is: Library ID/Username = Kansas Library eCard number Password/Pin = birthdate in MMDDYYYY format (slashes optional). If you’ve lost your card, please click the eCard Login link above and fill out the "forgot" form. Your information will be emailed to you. Your local library can also look up your card information.

2. iPad/iPhone Troubleshooting (all apps)

This is what we try first when one of the digital book apps is not working properly on our iPad. It solves all general issues. Restart the Device: Restart your device about once a week for best performance. 1. Hold down the power button on the top right corner of the device until a "power off" message appears. 2. Swipe the power off slider to fully turn off the device. 3. Allow the device to be off for a minute or two before turning it back on and trying the app again. Uninstalling/Reinstalling App If restart does not work. 1. Go to the home screen of your device, and hold down on the misbehaving app until it starts to "wiggle." 2. A black X will appear on the corner of your app. Tap this to delete it. 3. Tap your home key to exit deletion mode. 4. Reinstall the app from your App Store. If you need instructions on doing this, see the Tutorials page. Apps for Cloud Library - checkouts will reappear after login to the app. Reader Apps for Enki or Freading - download a fresh copy of the book from My Account (Enki) or My Downloads (Freading).

3. Android Troubleshooting (all apps)

This is what we try first when one of the digital book apps is not working properly on our Android tablet. Re-try the app after each fix as you likely do not need to do all. Restart the Device: Restart your device about once a week for best performance. 1. Hold down the power button until a "power off" message appears. 2. Confirm that you want to power off. 3. Allow the device to be off for a minute or two before turning it back on and trying the app again. Clearing App Data: 1. Go into the Settings icon for the device (not the settings inside an app). 2. Choose Applications or Apps (some devices may also need to select Application Manager to continue). 3. Choose the app that is not working from the list. 4. Tap "clear data" or "clear app data" - if you do not see this button on the main screen tap "Storage." Uninstalling/Reinstalling App (If restart does not work.) 1. Go into Settings. 2. Select Apps or Applications. 3. Select the misbehaving app from the list, and tap the "uninstall" button. 4. Reinstall the app from your Play Store. If you need instructions on doing this, see the Tutorials page. Cloud Library- checkouts will reappear after login to the app. Enki or Freading - download a fresh copy of the book from My Account (Enki) or My Downloads (Freading).

4. Kindle Fire Troubleshooting (all apps)

Always try these two things first, they solve most general issues. Restart the Device: Restart your device about once a week for best performance. 1. Hold down the power button until a "power off" message appears. 2. Confirm that you want to power off. 3. Allow the device to be off for a minute or two before turning it back on and trying the app again. Uninstalling/Reinstalling App (If restart does not work.) 1. Go into Settings. 2. Select Apps or Applications. 3. Select the misbehaving app from the list, and tap the "uninstall" button. 4. Reinstall the app. If you need instructions on doing this, see the Tutorials page. Apps for Cloud Library - checkouts will reappear after login to the app.

5. Mobile Apps: if I leave the wifi/4G area, can I still use my books?

As long as you already have them checked out/downloaded, yes! Some notes: 

Cloud Library App - open each book once before leaving the connection zone to ensure it downloaded. If the app continues to put a "no server connection" bar over your book, put the device into airplane mode while reading (stops app from trying to reconnect to servers). 

Freading, Enki - once your book has downloaded to the app, nothing special is required, though we do like to open the book at least once to double-check it has downloaded before leaving the wifi area. 

Please note that BookFlix & Unite for Literacy are in-browser only, and require an internet connection.

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1. Bookflix not working on computer.

These are the most common reasons for a problem accessing books on BookFlix. It works entirely in your internet browser.

Clear the Browser's Temporary Files or Cache  (most common). A lot of leftover "junk" can build up as you use the internet, and interfere with normal functions. Since BookFlix plays directly in your internet window, clearing out these files usually clears up an access problem. If you do not know where to find this option, see this page. It details how to do this for various brands of browser. 

BookFlix - Update Flash Player Bookflix needs Flash to run. Usually your internet browser will prompt you to update it if necessary, but if you accidentally closed the message or otherwise missed it: 1. Go to the Install Flash Player site. http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/ 2. UNCHECK the promotional offer in the gray box. 3. Download & install Flash as prompted by your computer. 4. Close and reopen your internet browser before attempting to use Bookflix again. Also Consider: ---When was the last time you restarted your computer? We recommend restarting about once a week. This helps your computer start fresh in a new usage session. ---Have you kept up with your computer's required updates? Missing updates often leads to a variety of problems, which will be compounded over time.

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1. What library card do I need to use these books?

Any Kansas resident can check out from this collection. Individuals will need a Kansas Library eCard (which can be obtained from any library in the state) to login to or register for these services.

The Kansas Library eCard is only for accessing online materials available for all residents of Kansas, and is separate from your local library card used to checkout physical books.

If you do not have a card yet, most people can get in to the kids ebooks without login, or you can look at the recommended free book sites on our main page.

2. How long do books checkout?

This varies a bit by system - please note there are never fines on digital books. As checkouts are on a timer, you can never have an overdue book. 

Cloud Library eBooks: 21 day checkout, please return book if you finish it early; can have 5 books checked out at a time. No renew feature, but you can checkout a book again immediately if no one else was on hold for it. 

Enki Library eBooks: 21 day checkout, can return early; up to 10 checkouts at a time. No renew feature, but can checkout a book again immediately if no one else is on hold for it. 

Freading eBooks: 14 day checkout, it works by a "checkout allowance" that gives you 5 checkouts per week. Unused checkouts roll over for up to 4 weeks. If book expires before you finish reading, just download a new copy. 

Britannica E-STAX: no actual checkouts, use as many books as you like. There is an optional download of books for offline use, those files will expire after 2 months, but you can redownload immediately if still using the book. 

Digital Storybooks (BookFlix): no actual checkout, no limits.

3. What is the difference between ebooks and audiobooks?

Audiobooks are books you listen to (just like we used to on tape or CD). eBooks are text books you read on a screen. We have more than one choice for ebooks at this time.

4. Why do some books have holds lists?

There’s some variety in how library digital book systems work.

Cloud Library: we have to buy every copy of each book on these. So, if all copies are checked out, you place a hold. Of course we wish that you did not have to wait, but we’d need an unlimited budget to accomplish zero holds lists. Digital library audiobooks can cost as much as $109 per copy. Library ebooks can cost as much as $65 per copy, and many of the "cheaper" ebook copies ($12-60) actually *expire* after a certain number of checkouts or a time period (like a year).

Enki Library: also has specific copies, but as the collection there is quite large holds lists are uncommon (or very short).

No Holds Systems: the library doesn’t buy individual books. These work more like a rental system - the library pays based on how many books are checked out (Freading). Mostly it is medium-small publishers willing to do this type. The biggest publishers would much rather have us buy actual copies.

5. How do I know if my device is compatible?

Please visit the Instructions & Devices page. This will let you narrow down to your device. With the exception of regular Kindle ereaders, all devices can use at least one system. If your device has become too old to use a particular service, please check the bottom of the device's page for special notes. If you need more assistance, please feel free to contact the Online Services Help Desk (audiobooks@ks.gov or 800-432-3919).

6. Can I request that you add a certain book on any of these services?

Yes, Cloud Library (ebooks & Audiobooks) at this time. Use the Digital Book Request Form. Please realize that some books do not have digital versions, and not all publishers sell digital copies to libraries.

Some of the services (like Freading, digital storybooks) are subscription-based. Every book in their catalogs are available for you to use, the library does not purchase individual titles/copies.

7. I've noticed that some bestselling authors aren't available. What is going on?

Most bestselling authors are published by the "Big Six" publishing houses. They have a variety of restrictions on how libraries can buy their ebooks (if allowed at all). Some have copies of the book expire (either after a certain amount of checkouts or 1 year after purchase) or extreme price differences (paying 3 times or more than retail for the book). As you can imagine, all of this makes maintaining the collection difficult.

.If you would like to know more about this, please follow our Big 6 eBooks page on Facebook.

Some authors are speaking out about this as well, please see the Authors for Library eBooks. They provide resources on how you can help.

8. Is this similar to the Talking Books service?

Talking Books is a service available for those who are unable to read or use standard printed materials as a result of temporary or permanent visual or physical impairment. For eligibility information continue reading online.

People eligible for Talking Books may also use any of the Digital Book eLending services. Please ask if you need assistance.

9. Who do I contact if I have further questions or need help setting up for audiobooks or ebooks?

Email the State Library Online Services desk or call 800-432-3919. We are open Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm. Messages left outside of business hours will be responded to as soon as possible.

If you are experiencing an error outside of business hours, please see the Digital Book Help Notes page for the most common issues.

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1. How long do books check out? How many books can I check out?

Service	Loan Period	Loan Limit	Renewals	Holds	Early Return
RBdigital	1-21 days (choose at checkout)	10 books at a time	Yes, if no holds	Yes	Yes
cloudLibrary	14 days	5 books at a time	No	Yes	Yes
Enki Library	21 days	10 books at a time	No	Yes	Yes
Freading	14 days	5 checkouts per week (unused checkouts roll over for 4 weeks)	No	No (all titles always available)	n/a
Total Boox	Checkouts do not expire	No limit	n/a	No (all titles always available)	n/a
Britannica E-STAX	Always available; No restrictions on school use - downloaded book files expire after 2 months
Scholastic BookFlix	Always available; No curriculum use by or within schools

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1. What is the Kansas Library eCard (KSLC)?

The Kansas Library eCard (formerly known as the Kansas Library Card) is your entry to statewide online library resources, including high quality information and research databases. Use it to:

• Access the listing of databases - please realize that many people can now access the database list without the need to log in (Try the Online Resources page).
• Register for resources that require a personal account to function (such as services through Digital Book eLending).

2. How do I get a Kansas Library eCard?

Request a card at your local public, academic, or school library. The library may require some proof of your Kansas residency. The staff will enter your full name and date of birth into the Kansas Library eCard database.
The library will provide you with a paper card, which will have your KSLC number. Your birthdate in MMDDYYYY format will be the password, and it will expire 3 years after creation.

Optional: provide an email to have the system send your card's details by email instead of using the paper card.

3. Who can get a card & is there an age limit?

Any resident of Kansas can apply for a Kansas Library eCard. Participating libraries and schools may require some proof of residency before issuing the card.

There are no lower age limits for a card, but very young Kansans will need a parent or guardian to request a card on their behalf. Please realize that some online resources may not be useful to residents that cannot yet read or type, but see the eBooks for Kids page for materials they will enjoy.

4. Where do I log in to access the databases?

Please note that many people can now access the databases without the need to login. Try the links on the Online Resources page.

Otherwise, please login at the Kansas Library eCard page. Remember, birth dates must be entered in the MMDDYYYY format for a successful login. For example, if the birth date is July 3, 1980, it would need to be entered as 07031980.

5. How do I use the card with statewide audiobooks or ebooks?

Visit the Digital Books eLending start page for brief instructions on registering for the audiobooks service or logging in to ebooks.

6. When does my card expire & how do I renew it?

Each card will automatically expire three years from the date it was issued. If your expiration date is not recorded on the card, log in to the KSLC website. The date that the card was issued or last renewed will be posted at the top of the page after login.

To renew, simply inquire at your nearest public, academic, or school library. The staff will renew your account.

7. I'm in the military and currently based out of state. Can I get a card?

Yes! Simply email kslc@ks.gov with your full name and birthdate. Please email us from your military email account.

Cards work regardless of your location, including overseas.

8. I reside outside of Kansas - can I still get a card?

No. The Kansas Library eCard is available to Kansas residents only.

9. I've lost my card, who do I contact?

Contact your local library or send an email with your full name and birth date (we will need this to search the database for your record).

10. I receive an error message when attempting to login. What should I do?

1. Make sure that your card is still valid and you have entered the correct login information. Contact your local library to verify that your account is valid and to double-check your login information. Please note that KSLCs expire after three years. If your card has expired past the point that the library can renew it, a new card can be issued to you.


2. Clear your browser's temporary internet files. Your internet browser may be saving old login information. Please visit our Clearing Your Temporary Internet Files page to learn how to find this option for most types of browsers.

11. Can I use the card to check out books, DVDs, and other regular library materials?

No, the Kansas Library eCard is a tool to access digital information only (databases, ebooks, audiobooks). It cannot be used for borrowing physical materials of any kind.

12. Are any of the online resources useful to non-English language readers?

The Learning Express Library contains these sections in Spanish: Recursos para Hispanohablantes (GED prep, writing, math) and U.S. Citizenship prep.

Mango Languages is not just for English speakers to learn other languages, but for the learning of English as well.

The EBSCO research databases list contains:

• Two databases that only search Latin American journals (Fuente Academica and MedicLatina)
• Ability to translate the search interface into 29 languages by use of the Languages option in the main menu, found on the upper right side of any database


• Translation of articles into 29 languages. This only applies to articles with full text available; look for the translate drop-down box on the article's page. This shows a translation in progress by the system, from English to Spanish.

13. Will my use of the Kansas Library eCard be monitored?

Your name, date of birth, and Kansas Library eCard number are the only personal information kept on the Kansas Library Card database.

Privacy statement: "Activity data incurred by use of the Kansas Library Card for remote access to online databases is collected. Such data is collected to determine the usefulness of the card. Personal information will be kept confidential to the extent of the law."

14. History of the Kansas Library eCard

The first Kansas Library Cards came into use in 2002 as a way for Kansas residents to access research databases and later our first downloadable ebooks & audiobooks services. The original cards were orange, and since they were in use for years many people around the state still have them.

The Kansas Library Card has often been confused with other library cards, so in 2013 we decided to try naming it the Kansas Library eCard. Since the card is only a login for digital materials, we hoped calling it the eCard would reinforce that. When a library creates a new eCard number, they may enter your email address so your card information will be sent to you. Paper cards are still available if you want one.

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1. KanILL: keep up with KS ILL news!

Interlibrary loan staff are encouraged to join the KanILL email list (listserv). This list provides you with needed announcements on the ILL system ShareIT (upcoming updates, problems), training opportunities, and a place to ask questions or discuss ILL best practices. Subscribe to listservs here.

2. Join KICNET (Statewide ILL System)

To participate in KICNET, an application must be filled out and the following criteria must be met:

• Library must sign and submit the KICNET Membership Agreement. New accounts will not be approved, or system account permissions activated for training, until the agreement is signed and on file at the State Library of Kansas. Failure to renew the agreement (bi-annually) or abide by its terms will jeopardize a library's license to participate in KICNET. Agreement also obligates your library to add new holdings to the Kansas Library Catalog (KLC), state your lending policies in the KICNET Participant Record, and lend materials.
• Complete and submit an ILL Annual Activity Report (public libraries, this is now a part of the Public Library Survey).
• Library must have internet access and an appropriate web browser in order to use SHAREit (the system that manages all ILL lending & borrowing).

Questions? Nikki Hansen nicole.hansen@ks.gov

Back to ILL main page.

3. Need to sign / resign KICNET Membership Agreement

The KICNET Membership Agreement should be resigned every two years OR whenever significant staff changes occur. Complete form here. Libraries may withdraw from KICNET at any time by notifying the State Library and completing all outstanding requests.

Back to ILL main page.

4. If my library isn’t a KICNET member, can we still ILL?

Of course! Most libraries will accept ILL requests via other methods, including the standard ALA form or fax. Your regional library system may offer other methods internally.

Back to ILL main page.

5. What is the courier & how do I join?

Kansas Library Express is the courier system between Kansas libraries as an alternative to sending your ILL items through the mail. Northeast Kansas Library System administers the courier system. For contact information, costs, and the "join" forms, please see the KLE website link below.

Kansas Library Express site

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1. Library's admin login lost / training needed.

Library Admin Login Form - please use your work email and note that this form just sends Statewide Services staff your request! We will respond as quickly as possible, with your login on a copy of the brief KSLC Admin instructions.

For more information, please see the KSLC Tutorial on the Statewide Services Training page. One-on-one training can be arranged, and we do two KSLC Admin webinars each year (April & October). Contact information and upcoming webinars are also listed on the training page.

Statewide Services Training page

2. "No rights" message when I sign in?

The website has cached your previous login to our site. Please:
1. click on your library's name in the upper right corner.
2. click on "sign out" then attempt to login again. This should clear up the problem.



Please note that your KSLC admin login should not be used to login to the "Library eCard Login" area. This is the patron side of the KSLC, the admin login to make/renew cards will not work there!

3. Reasons to make a card for a patron?

1. Access to the Digital Book eLending services. The majority of these need a personal account to work correctly (for checkouts, holds, etc) and the card provides this personal account (for ebooks, patrons login directly with the KSLC info) or provides a way to register for one (Oneclickdigital audio needs you to login to the KSLC and do the registration form). Need instructions on login or creating an OneClick account? See the main Digital Books eLending page.


2. Backup access to the databases/ online resources. Most patrons can access the databases without login via the statewide links (on pages like http://kslib.info/eor). These links "see" that the patron is in Kansas by their internet service provider and let the patron in, but it is not perfect. Patrons that cannot access automatically via the statewide links can access by logging in to the KSLC (http://kslc.org instead. This is also the place a patron should access if traveling out of state.

4. KSLC handouts for our front desk?

Yes - there's a trifold pamphlet on the Statewide Services Promotional page. We like this one because it has the KSLC art on the front (so you could scribble in the patron's number directly on the front) and has notes on everything the KSLC is used for on the inside. Statewide Services Promotional Materials page

5. Blank cards / can I still use the old orange cards?

Blank cards are no longer professionally printed. Please print your own sheets of blank cards from the documents on our site (may use any paper/cardstock you choose).

If you still have some of the orange, professionally printed KSLC blanks, please check the back for outdated information. The last printing of the orange cards was in 2012, and yours may be older than that. Please recycle these and begin issuing the new cards. back to KSLC main page.

6. How many cards have we made?

Please note that this information (with screenshots) is a part of the KSLC Admin Tutorial on the Statewide Services Training page.

1. Login to the KSLC admin and choose "Look up an existing account."
2. In the last name field, put in a % and search.
3. All cards created under your login will be returned.
4. Copy/paste the results into an Excel document (sorry, we don't have an export feature).
5. Sort the results by expiration date - since cards expire 3 years after they were created/last renewed, you will be able to determine how many cards you created/renewed during a given time period. Statewide Services Training page

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1. Who may use the service?

Persons who are unable to read or use standard printed materials due to visual or physical impairments, reading disabilities, or other print disabilities (such as blindness, low vision, lack of muscle coordination, prolonged weakness, or dyslexia) are eligible. An application signed by a certifying agent is required. Please send the original application via the mail or scan and email the full application to us at KTB@ks.gov

2. What types of materials are available?

Talking Books provides books, magazines, and descriptive videos for eligible Kansas residents. Books and magazines are available in digital audio, digital braille, and press braille formats. A list of audio book titles is available online.

3. How do I send in my requests?

Readers can make requests by mail (no special forms are necessary, any sheet of paper will do), in person, by phone, or by email. After hours, request lists can be left on our voice mail system by calling 1-800-362-0699.

4. How do I receive books from my library?

You should receive a starter cartridge of book(s) when you first begin the service and receive your playback equipment. To return books, put the cartridge back in the container, remove the mail card as a mailing label is attached to the container,  and drop into the mail. Generally, the library automatically mails replacement books back to readers; however, this varies according to everyone's needs.

Kansas Talking Books patrons can also download books from BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download), an online collection of digital audio and braille books produced by NLS and network libraries nationwide, magazines, and music scores and books. Please contact our office if you are interested in BARD or fill out a short online application to sign up.

5. How are the books sent and how long may they be kept?

Books are sent postage free, through regular U.S. mail, and are returned in the same manner. All have pre-addressed postage free mailing labels on the container for easy return. Books are checked out with no due date; however, you will not receive new books until one of your multiple book cartridges are returned..

6. What if I do not enjoy the books I am receiving?

Contact a library staff member. The Talking Books staff can help you customize your user profile, make selections, and give you ideas for other titles, authors, or subjects you might like.

7. Are book catalogs available? How often will I receive catalogs?

Information about access to the Talking Book Topics (TBT) catalog is provided in the welcome packet. This catalog is issued every two months and lists the newest books available through our collection. Catalogs are available in l digital book, HTML, or accessible PDF formats.   

Braille Book Review lists braille books and magazines recently added to the NLS collection and available through a network of cooperating libraries. NLS publishes Braille Book Review bimonthly in braille and HTML. Contact Kansas Talking Books to subscribe to this publication.

8. Will my Talking Books play on my computer?

No. For security and copyright reasons, NLS Digital Audio Books will not play on a personal computer.

9. What happens if my playback machine or books stops working?

Do not attempt to repair library equipment. A replacement is sent in exchange for the inoperable player or book. Please contact Kansas Talking Books to report errors with your player or books.

10. Are videos included in the collection?

Descriptive videos and DVDs with descriptive audio tracks are available. Descriptive audio tracks provide movies and television programs enhanced narration that describes the actions, settings, gestures, and other key visual elements. Titles range from the Nova Series to Disney Movies. A current list of videos is available. To update your request list print the available order form and mail to the library.  

11. Does Talking Books provide textbooks?

While some books teachers and professors may assign can be obtained at Talking Books, textbooks are not specifically provided by Talking Books. Students receive many textbooks from Learning Ally, located in Princeton, New Jersey. For more information on textbooks, contact Learning Ally at 1-800-221-4792 or visit their website. Bookshare is a free source for students with over a million books in large print, audio, braille, highlighted text, and other formats. For more information, visit their website.

12. What if I want to make suggestions about titles or authors to be recorded on Talking Books?

If there are some books or authors you would like to suggest for production especially those about Kansas or by Kansas authors, please contact the regional library. While we will consider your suggestion the library retains the final task of determining whether or not a book will be produced locally. Any books you send will remain the property of the library.

If the book is not Kansas-related (about Kansas or by Kansas authors), we can make a recommendation to NLS. However, final decisions regarding book production will be determined by NLS.

13. If I move out of the area or out of state, can I take my Talking Book player(s)?

Yes. Simply contact your local Talking Book library with your new address and contact information. The staff will transfer the player serial number to your new serving library. There is no requirement to return the player if you plan to continue service at another library. Books and magazines, however, should be returned to their issuing library.

Updated 08/04/2022