The internet is an important source of information and reading and RNIB is here to help you make the most it.
RNIB online reference services
Service update
24 September 2009:
Due to technical problems the online reference services are currently unavailable. We are sorry for the inconvenience caused and are working to fix the problem as soon as possible.
What is available?
The National Library Service provides access to a range of online reference services:
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KnowUK - an online reference service featuring UK related information
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NewsUK - access to local and national newspapers
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Credo Reference - dictionaries, encyclopedias and other reference works
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UK Reference Centre - an archive of popular magazines.
Online reference services are available when you join the library simply request them when completing your application.
BookStream book club
As a member of the BookStream book club you could read any of our Daisy audio books immediately through your internet connection:
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Choose a book, add it to your personal bookshelf, select the stream button and sit back. In a few seconds you will be reading the book of your choice
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Skip forward and back, close it when you've had enough and come back to the same place at any time
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You can have a copy of the book sent to you on CD
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You can put up to 5 books on your bookshelf at any one time and you can keep a book on the shelf for as long as you want
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Annual subscription costs £50
Where to find eBooks
There are many websites providing free eBooks:
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One of the best places to look is Project Gutenberg, where older out of copyright books are available in a variety of formats.
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Google Books is another good source of eBooks but not all their content will be accessible to people with sight loss.
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Increasingly eBooks are also available from commercial sources such as Waterstones and WHSmith.
Online reference from your public library
It might be worth contacting your local library to enquire about their range of online services. Usually these can be accessed from home or work. The Directgov website can help you find your local Public Library.