Eligibility
The Andrew Heiskell Library operates a books-by-mail program that
delivers recorded and braille titles postage-free. Nassau residents are
eligible if they have difficulty reading standard printed materials
because of one or more of the following:- You can't see well enough to read conventional print. Specifically, you must: be legally blind (with vision in the better eye of 20/200 or less with correcting lenses), or have a visual field no greater than 20 degrees in diameter, or be unable to see well enough to focus long enough to read standard print, even with corrective lenses; or
- You have a permanent or temporary physical limitation which prevents you from holding a book or turning its pages. Physical disabilities which may prevent the ability to read include: multiple sclerosis, stroke, cerebral palsy, severe arthritis; paralysis; a missing arm or hand; lack of muscle coordination; prolonged weakness; or
- You have a physically-based reading disability. You must be certified by a doctor of medicine (MD) or osteopathy (DO) as having a reading or learning disability due to an organic dysfunction severe enough to prevent reading in the usual manner.
Application Required
You must fill out an application and return it to the Andrew Heiskell
Library to confirm eligibility. More information on the application
process can be found on their website. If you have a reading or
learning disability, your application must be signed by a Medical
Doctor or a Doctor of Osteopathy. Otherwise, your application may
be signed by doctor or a professional (such as a social worker, teacher
or librarian) who is familiar with the applicant's disability.Once Accepted
Once your application has been received and confirmed, the Andrew Heiskell Library will register you for service and send you the requested equipment. They will also send you an information packet containing a welcome letter, sample catalogs of available books, and a guide to library services (which explains how to use the library and how to get the best service for your reading needs).
Contact the Andrew Heiskell Library
The Nassau Library System pays for a toll-free number so Nassau residents can call the Andrew Heiskell Library: (855) 697-6975.
If you wish to speak with someone at Nassau Library System, please e-mail [email protected] or call (516) 292-8920 x273 during regular business hours.