Library Media Center
The Ohio State School for the Blind maintains a collection of educational materials. The library houses volumes in: Braille, large print, regular print, disk, and taped recordings. An online catalog is available for students/staff use. This software is compatible with the school’s other adaptive software and it is accessible throughout the school building. The library also offers CCTVs and employs OCR technology for readers, offering a variety of reading opportunities. A variety of current magazines and newspapers are also available, as well as facilities to utilize specialized educational equipment.
You may view our collection by visiting the OSSB Library Website here: https://search.follettsoftware.com/metasearch/ui/50687
OSSB Library Media Center Additional Resources
The Ohio State School for the Blind Library Media Center is pleased to offer links to the following agencies that provide services to our students:
The Ohio Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
The Ohio Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped - PLEASE NOTE: Access to the OHIO-BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download) is available on this page. People wishing to sign up for BARD must complete a Talking Book Services application, which is available through the State Library of Ohio link.
INFOhio
INFOhio is an invaluable resource for students and staff at OSSB. Students and their families are encouraged to use this resource for homework and general educational enrichment. To log in to INFOhio, contact the OSSB Librarian for the information.
State Library of Ohio
State Library of Ohio handles all applications for services with the Library of Congress, National Library Service Talking Book and Braille Book program, in Ohio.
APPLICATION FOR FREE LIBRARY SERVICE
The National Library Service
The National Library Service (NLS) has updated its BARD MOBILE and BARD EXPRESS 'How-To Series' on Youtube. The BARD MOBILE link contains 16 videos, and the BARD EXPRESS link contains 9 videos. Users will find information on how to obtain mobile apps for smart phones, how to download books, and how to unzip books. Check these videos out, they are most helpful, especially for new users.
Learning Ally
Learning Ally is a private organization that, for a yearly fee, will provide school textbooks on a compact disk or cassette tape (if the textbook is older). NOTE: This is not a State of Ohio or Federal Government Agency. http://www.learningally.org/
Seedlings Braille Books for Children
Seedlings Braille Books for Children offers reasonably priced Braille. Also check out their “Book Angel” Program, where students with Visual Impairments can receive 3 free braille books per year!
National Braille Press
National Braille Press offers reasonably priced Braille books, electronic books and educational materials at www.nbp.org
Bookshare
Bookshare is an organization that works closely with schools, educational agencies, libraries and other nonprofit organizations to provide accessible electronic books to individuals with qualifying disabilities. Check with the OSSB librarian for more information.
VOICEcorps
VOICEcorps is a volunteer program that provides "audio access to the world" via newspapers and magazines. Additionally VOICEcorps also broadcasts a variety of programming that includes (but is not limited to) a daily exercise program, grocery and department store shopping ads, and features a wonderful program called "Keystrokes" that provides assistance with computers and other adaptive equipment that is frequently used in the visually impaired community.