Oakland Talking Book Service @ RHPL

Rochester Hills Public Library - 500 Olde Towne Rd, Rochester, MI 48307

Call us at (248) 650-7150 or (800) 774-4542

or email us at OTBS@rhpl.org

BARD 

Library patrons who would like to listen to talking books on an iOS or Android device (most Smartphones or tablets) or who would like to download their own books for use on their NLS Talking Book Machine (DTBM) or other NLS-compatible commercial player are encouraged to download books from BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download). Tens of thousands of books and dozens of magazines are available for immediate download, with more added every week! Having access to BARD eliminates the need to wait for talking books to arrive in the mail or the need to return books—once you download a book to your device, it is yours to keep for as long as you need. 

In order to download books from BARD, you must first apply for a login and password. Only patrons actively registered for service through OTBS, or through another library within the National Library Service network, are eligible to download from BARD.

To use BARD on an Android or iOS device, the free BARD Mobile app must be downloaded. Alternatively, BARD may be used on a computer with a high-speed Internet connection to download books onto a digital cartridge or compatible USB/flash/thumb drive for use on an NLS-issued or NLS-compatible DTBM. 

*Please note that the use of BARD requires a valid e-mail address and basic technology skills. OTBS staff members are available to provide technical assistance, but familiarity with computers and/or mobile technology is required.

Click here for answers to Frequently Asked Questions about BARD.

If you have any further questions, or need help using BARD, please e-mail us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call (248) 650-7150 or (800) 774-4542.