Students with print disabilities such as visual impairments, reading disabilities or some physical disabilities may qualify for audio books. Many audio books are available on CD that can be accessed from a computer equipped with screen reading software. ReadPlease offers free, downloadable screen reader software that many students find sufficient for this purpose.
Students must be registered with DSS to request Audio Books through DSS.
Obtaining audio books takes time. Students should contact DSS as soon as they know what required reading they would like to request in audio format. This may include textbooks or course packets. Priority enrollment through the DSS office may be granted to students requesting audio books to assist in obtaining audio materials in a timely manner.
Students must purchase all course materials such as textbooks before DSS can provide them with the audio format. Students will need to provide DSS with proof of purchase. This is due to copyright laws that K-State is required to follow.
Students are asked to complete a Request for Audio Books form (available in the office) and submit it to DSS. The form will ask for specific details regarding textbooks. For assistance, students may wish to contact instructors directly or Textbook Department in the K-State Union Bookstore. Once this form is complete, DSS will be able to begin the process of obtaining audio books.
Many books can be purchased in audio format instead of the paper version. K-State’s bookstore does not stock many of these but students can order an audio version directly from a publisher or other companies such as amazon.com. Most of the time these may be textbooks that are typically required in History or English classes.
Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic (RFB&D) is a non profit organization that has many textbooks available in audio format. Students can enroll for a one-time application fee of $50.00 and a yearly charge of $25.00. Applications are available in the DSS office or from RFB&D by calling at 1-800-221-4792/3 or visit their website at www.rfbd.org. DSS also maintains a limited RFB&D membership and can obtain audio books for students.
The National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped administers a free library program of braille and audio materials circulated to eligible borrowers in the United States by postage-free mail. Applications are available in the DSS office or from NLS by calling 1-888-657-7323, or visit their website at www.loc.gov/nls