Community directory

National Library for the Blind

NLB provides a wide range of information services for visually impaired people. Services include a Braille and Moon lending library service and electronic library and information services. NLB also works to promote access for visually impaired people to 'mainstream' library and information services.

NLB's vision is to ensure that barriers are removed so that visually impaired people have the same access to library services as sighted people.

They have Europe's largest collection of tactile books, and offer a free, world-wide lending service. An extensive collection of Braille music is also available, plus a giant print library for children.

They help individuals choose their reading and answer reference and other enquiries, directly or through their website. The site is fully accessible and includes access to the NLB catalogue, the facility to forage for, and order books, an area for young people, discussion boards, the NLB magazine 'Read On', and much more.

They also provide a gateway to wider library services for visually impaired people. By developing partnerships with other agencies in the UK and overseas, they are working to provide visually impaired people with access to a wider range of books, information, and services in the format of their choice. The NLB was founded in 1882.

Affiliated organisations: Share the Vision (STV); Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP); International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA); The Right to Read Alliance.

How to find: Nearest mainline railway station is Stockport, nearest local railway stations are Brinnington and Bredbury.

Wheelchair accessibility: Ramps, lifts, toilets.

Membership: Membership is open to anyone who needs to use the service (eg visually impaired people, teachers, librarians, parents etc). Members usually self-refer and can join by e-mail, through the website, or over the phone.

Date of AGM: September/October.

Opening Hours:
* Monday-Friday 8.30am-4.30pm;
* Answerphone outside office hours.

Publications: Annual Review; Quarterly Supporters Newsletter 'NLB Focus'; Quarterly Members Magazine 'Read On'; Bi-Annual Research Bulletin; Quarterly catalogue of books added to stock 'New Reading', Quarterly Campaigning Newsletter 'Soapbox'.

Registered charity number 213212