The Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) is a download service that provides access to more than one 100,000 books, magazines, and music scores available from the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS).  The service is available to registered users of the braille and talking book program through the CT Library for Accessible Books (CT LAB).  

Books may also be downloaded via a computer web browser or using the BARD mobile app. The BARD mobile app is available for iOS and Android devices. Braille readers will need to connect to a refreshable braille display via an iOS device with a Bluetooth connection.  

The BARD website and mobile app are password-protected, and all files are in an electronically downloadable form of compressed audio or formatted braille. 

For more information about BARD, including how to apply, please contact the Connecticut Library for Accessible Books at  csl.bard@ct.gov or telephone 860-704-2220 or 800-842-4516.