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10/24/2024
Zoomax braille eReader. Text overlay: That All May eRead

The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS) has announced the details of its October 2024 That All May eRead Program. This webinar series focuses on the use of the NLS braille eReaders.

The topic for the October That All May eRead online program will be using NLS Braille eReaders to access online services.

The meeting will begin at 7 PM eastern time, Tuesday, October 29, 2024, and will last for one hour. The meeting will be recorded.

If you have any questions about this program, contact the NYS Talking Book and Braille Library

10/23/2024
No Subjects
Overhead view of wooden table with orange pumpkins on it. Text overlay: Print/Braille Children's Books for Fall

Pumpkin eye, BR014012, by Denise Fleming

Simple rhymes describe the sights, sounds, and smells of Halloween. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 2001.

Adventures of Marshmallow and Peter, BR025025, by Peter James Heath 

Meet Peter Heath, a seven-year-old, who loves soccer, LEGOs, karate, and the outdoors. He's a typical second-grader, except for one thing: Peter is fully blind. After being diagnosed with Batten disease, a rare genetic disorder, Peter lost his vision completely in the spring of 2022. But this didn't stop him from writing his own book, "The Adventures of Marshmallow and Peter," a short children's book written from the point of view of his cane, Marshmallow. PRINT/BRAILLE. For Preschool-grade 2. 2024.

Little Tree,  BR021075, by Loren Long

Little Tree is surrounded by other little trees, but when autumn comes and the other trees drop their leaves, Little Tree cannot be persuaded to let his go, even after they wither and turn brown. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 2016.

The night before kindergarten, BR024403, by Natasha Wing

When a group of children prepares for and experiences the first day of kindergarten, the parents are the ones who have trouble adjusting. PRINT/BRAILLE. For Preschool-grade 2. 2022.

Max, BR013079, by Bob Graham

Born into a family of superheroes, Max is a late bloomer when it comes to flying. But when a baby bird falls from a nest, Max flies to its rescue without even thinking about it. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 2001.

Book fiesta! celebrate Children's Day/book day = Celebremos el día de los niños/el día de los libros, BR019014, by Pat Mora

Children read books in all kinds of places, both indoors and out. Bilingual book in English and Spanish. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 2009.

Nini Lost and Found, BR019041, by Anita Lobel

A pet cat named Nini slips out of the house and enjoys an outdoor adventure--until darkness falls. Large animal shapes and noises frighten her, but then Nini hears human voices calling her home. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 2010.

The Scarecrow, BR022971, by Beth Ferry

After a lonely scarecrow saves a small, scared crow that falls from midair, the pair forge an unlikely friendship that is tested by the changing of the seasons. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 2019.

Leaves, BR018009, by David Ezra Stein

A young bear experiences the changing seasons for the first time. When he sees leaves fall from the trees, he tries to put them back on the branches. After sleeping snugly all winter, he awakens and joyfully welcomes the tiny new leaves of spring. PRINT/BRAILLE. For preschool-grade 2. 2007.

Sofia Valdez, future prez, BR23180, by Andrea Beaty and David Roberts

When her abuelo is injured by a pile of trash, Sofia gets community support to transform the dangerous Mount Trashmore into a park--and takes on City Hall in the process. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 2019.

And Then Comes Halloween, BR019024, by Tom Brenner

When autumn chills the air and crunchy leaves fall from trees, it is time to prepare for Halloween: decorating the house, carving pumpkins, and making costumes. Finally, you go trick-or-treating with your friends and share the spooky fun. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 2009.

Applesauce Season, BR019029, by Eden Ross Lipson

In the fall when school starts, Grandma declares that it is applesauce season and leads the way to a farmers' market. Her grandson loves the many different apple names and helps the family cook batches of the treat in the kitchen. Recipe included. PRINT/BRAILLE. For grades K-3. 2009.

 

 

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10/16/2024
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Close up of an open dictionary. Text overlay: National Dictionary Day, NYS Talking Book and Braille Library

October 16 has been designated as National Dictionary Day. TBBL has put together a list of all the different dictionaries we have available. It is a fun and eclectic collection!

The Charlie Brown Dictionary, BR003930, by Wendell W. Wright and Charles M. Schulz

This is a new dictionary designed for children to enjoy. Entries reflect the language children hear, speak, and read. For grades 2-4. 1975.

The dictionary of difficult words: with more than 400 perplexing words to test your wits, BR024414, by Jane Solomon

What is a bumbershoot? Or a moonbow? And what does it mean when someone absquatulates? All the words in this book are difficult to spell, hard to say, and their meaning is obscure to most children (and most adults)! Written with simple, easy-to-understand definitions, this dictionary celebrates the beauty of the English language for family trivia time spent around the printed page. For grades 2-4 and older readers. 2019.

The story of the dictionary, DB009587, by Robert Kraske

Lively account tracing the history of the dictionary and describing what goes into compiling a book that everybody uses. For grades 5-7. 2015.

Biographical dictionary of the world's inventors, DBF01050, by Jian Zho Xu

A biographical dictionary of many of the world's inventors throughout history. Chinese language, Cantonese dialect. 2021.

The Cook's Companion: A Dictionary of Culinary Tips and Terms, BR000790, by Frieda Arkin

Information on preparing, cooking, and storing numerous foods is presented in alphabetical order, along with a dictionary of cooking and menu terms, including some in French, German, and Italian. The many suggestions will help to prevent kitchen disasters. 1997.

The dictionary people: the unsung heroes who created the Oxford English Dictionary, DB119060, by Sarah Ogilvie.

A history and celebration of the many far-flung volunteers who helped define the English language, word by word. Unrated. Commercial audiobook. 2023.

The Dictionary of Clichés: a Word Lover's Guide to 4,000 Overused phrases and almost-pleasing platitudes, BR024435, by Christine Ammer

The largest, most comprehensive, and most entertaining reference of its kind features more than four thousand unique clichés and common expressions. Explores the phrases and terms that enliven our language and uncovers expressions that have long been considered dead. Each entry includes a thorough definition, origin of the term, and an insightful example. 2023.

The disheveled dictionary: A curious caper through our sumptuous lexicon, BR011545 and DB046298, by Karen Elizabeth Gordon

An alphabetical list of the author's favorite words, which she includes for their rhythm and rich sound. Some entries are well-known words while others are obscure. 1997.

Word by word the secret life of dictionaries, DB088482, by Kory Stamper

Recounts the process of creating dictionaries. Discusses questions of usage, the reasons why small words often are the most difficult to define, and how it can take nine months to define a single word. Presents a variety of small facts about the words that make up English. 2017.

Word mysteries and histories: from quiche to humble pie, BR007052, Houghton Mifflin Company

Offers a repast for the etymological gourmand. Inspired by queries from the dictionaries' readers, the book discusses the origin and usage of such unusual words as fizzle, jackanapes, posh, and sunbeam. 1986.

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10/08/2024
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As of October 2024, the National Library Service (NLS) is requiring new applicants and existing patrons under the age of 18 to provide parental acknowledgment for NLS services and devices. The policy is being implemented at this time to bring NLS into compliance with a new Library of Congress policy that took effect in March of 2024.  

To avoid disruption to service for your child, you will need to provide parental acknowledgment in writing by January 1, 2025. If parental acknowledgment is not provided for existing patrons by January 1, 2025, your child’s account will be suspended, and they will not receive any materials. Your child’s account can be reinstated after that date by submitting the parental acknowledgement form. If you do not wish to provide the signed form, NLS devices and reading materials utilized by your child must be promptly returned to the NYS Talking Book and Braille Library.

Please note that providing parental acknowledgement will not give you access to your child’s reading and borrowing history. Your child will not be required to reapply for service upon turning 18. However, the responsibility for NLS services and devices must be transferred to your child at that time.

Parental acknowledgment must be submitted in writing. Written acknowledgment may be provided by mail or email. Verbal parental acknowledgment by phone will not be accepted. 

Requirements under the Parental Acknowledgment for NLS Services and Devices Policy

Parents/guardians of minors are asked to acknowledge and accept the NLS program terms:

  • Your child will receive services and equipment and will have access to the entire NLS catalog of reading material without content-based limits.
  • You will return all items loaned to your child (including digital talking book cartridges, hard copy braille, book players, and accessories) when no longer needed.  

Instructions for Existing Patrons

If a valid email address is associated with your child’s account, NLS will send a link for a parent / guardian to complete the required Parental Acknowledgment form.  

You may also do one of the following:

  • Submit a Parental Acknowledgment Supplemental Form by mail or email, or
  • Submit by mail or email a written statement of parental acknowledgment

If you choose to submit a written statement, you must include the following statement in your correspondence:  

As the parent/guardian of the patron, I acknowledge that my child will receive services and equipment and that my child will have access to the entire NLS catalog of reading material. I acknowledge that all materials and equipment (including digital talking book cartridges, hard-copy braille, book players, and accessories) must be returned when no longer needed.  

[Insert typed name, address, email address, and name of child]  

[Insert date]

Please make sure to include your contact information and your child’s name and contact information. 

Instructions for New Patrons

Please complete the Individual Application and the Parental Acknowledgement form. Submit both documents to the Talking Book and Braille Library.  

Additional Questions  

Please don’t hesitate to contact TBBL with any questions about this change. We’re happy to help!

Alternatively, you can contact the NLS Information Services Section by email at nlsref@loc.gov or by phone at 800-424-8567. 

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10/04/2024

We are pleased to let everyone know about a new software update that is available for the Zoomax eReader. The National Library Service (NLS) just released software version 2.13 to the public. This version is being referred to as a “hot fix” update, as it was created to deal with glitches in the software program that were making it difficult for patrons to navigate BARD using their Zoomax devices. Once installed, version 2.13 should enable users to access and download material from BARD and NFB Newsline without any problems. 

Update Your eReader 

There are two ways to update your eReader:  

  1. Via the internet, or  
  2. with a library-provided cartridge

If you do not have access to the Internet and need a cartridge, please contact TBBL, and we would be happy to send you one for updating your Zoomax.  

Below are the instructions for updating via the Internet: 

  1. Connect your Zoomax eReader to AC power 
  2. From the Zoomax main menu, navigate to device info 
  3. Press Enter to select it 
  4. Navigate to app update 
  5. Press Enter to select it 
  6. Navigate to version 2.13 
  7. Press S3 to bring up the context menu 
  8. Navigate to install 
  9. Press Enter to select it and install the update 
  10. When the "version installed successfully" message is displayed, navigate to OK and press Enter. In a few seconds, the eReader will restart and you will be at the top of the Main Menu 

If you have any questions, please contact us at TBBL and we will do our best to assist you. 

Zoomax Patron Listserv 

If you already belong to the NLS Zoomax Patron Listserv, then you may already know about the availability of this new update. If you do not subscribe to the Listserv, we encourage you to do so. It is an easy way to find out about any news regarding the Zoomax, including announcements about bug fixes. You can also learn from other Zoomax users or pose your own questions to the community.  

To subscribe to the Zoomax patron listserv, compose an email to the following  address: LISTSERV@listserv.loc.gov. Leave the subject of the message blank. In the body of the message, put the following text: 

subscribe NLS-ZM-EREADERPILOT FirstName LastName  

Be sure to replace the FirstName and LastName placeholders with your first and last name. 

Within a few minutes, you will receive a "Command confirmation request" email with a request confirmation link. Click on this link to complete your subscription request.

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10/01/2024
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Close up of pages fanning open from a large book. Text overlay: Reading List: New York History Month

This month we celebrate the history of New York State and look particularly at the Dutch influence on this history. Our list includes titles for all ages, mostly nonfiction but with a few historical fiction titles as well. Read, learn, and enjoy!


The morning chair, DB043247, by Barbara M. Joosse

Bram is a little Dutch boy who lives with his parents in a seaside village. In 1950 Bram’s family gets immigration papers to move to America. Bram’s mother had told him about America while they sat in their morning chair and sipped tea. Now both chair and family have a new home. For grades K-3. 2017.

The Jews of New Amsterdam, DB030469, by Eva Deutsch Costabel

Early one September morning in 1654, twenty-three Jews escaping persecution in Brazil sailed into the harbor of New Amsterdam (now New York). The governor wanted to expel them, but his employer, the Dutch West India Company, gave them permission to stay. Restrictions were placed on their freedom, however. They could not own homes, join the army, or hold certain jobs. This book tells the story of how they adapted and progressed. For grades 3-6. 1968.

American Archaeology Uncovers the Dutch Colonies, DB071662, by Lois Miner Huey

Discusses archaeological finds at sites in New York and Delaware colonized by the Dutch between 1609 and 1664. Explains what scientists have learned from the garbage of ordinary settlers who lived in forts, towns, and farms. For grades 4-7. 2010.

New York, BR009011 and DB034611, by Donald H. Bragaw, R. Conrad Stein, Paul J. Scudiere, and Robert L. Hillerich

Since its founding as a Dutch colony, New York has served as the gateway to America. Millions of immigrants to the United States have passed through New York City. And millions have chosen to stay there, making New York City the largest city in the nation and one of the most culturally diverse in the world. New York state also leads in industry, agriculture, and commerce. An introduction to the "Empire State" for grades 4-7 and older readers. 1989.

Martin Van Buren 8th President of the United States, BR007999 and DB030108, by Rafaela Ellis

Martin Van Buren was born in 1782 in a small Dutch community in New York. Although Martin was needed to work in his family's tavern, he finished the academy and became a law apprentice when he was fourteen. He soon discovered politics and moved to New York City where he became a notable lawyer and politician. He was elected president in 1836. For grades 5-8 and older readers. 1990.

The Mohawk, DB072686, by Nancy Bonvillain

History of the New York state Mohawk, the largest nation in the Iroquois Confederacy. Discusses the tribe's seventeenth-century fur-trading partnership with the Dutch and the English, skill at basketry, and adjustments to twentieth-century changes. For grades 6-9 and older readers. 2005.

A Brief Political and Geographic History of North America: Where Is New France, New Netherland, And New Sweden, DB068569, by Lissa Jones Johnston.

Discusses three major colonies that played important but little-known parts in the history of North America prior to the establishment of the thirteen colonies that became the United States. Covers related geographic names and key leaders. For grades 6-9. 2008.

The Hudson: A History, DB062666, by Tom Lewis

An overview of the Hudson River region since its seventeenth-century discovery by Europeans and changes to the area over time. Details its geography from the Adirondacks to New York City. Discusses the waterway's importance in travel, commerce, industry, and war and as an inspiration to artists, writers, and environmentalists. 2005.

The Island at The Center of The World: The Epic Story of Dutch Manhattan and The Forgotten Colony That Shaped America, DB058272, by Russell Shorto

Portrait of the "first New Yorkers"--the earliest European inhabitants of Manhattan predating the thirteen "original" English colonies. From archival documents including letters, deeds, journals, and court proceedings, the author reconstructs the multiethnic Dutch settlement and clash of two seventeenth-century powers that ended in 1664 when England took over Manhattan. 2004.

A history of the Jews in America, DB036162, by Howard Morley Sachar

Begins with the transplanting of European Jews to the New World and the establishment of New Amsterdam in 1654. Also discusses subsequent Jewish immigration, especially from eastern Europe; challenges newcomers face adapting to a new world while retaining their heritage; milestones in Jewish life, such as the Holocaust and the Six-Day War; and Jewish involvement in society. 1992.

City of dreams a novel of Nieuw Amsterdam and early Manhattan, DB064726, by Beverly Swerling

In 1661, English surgeon Lucas Turner and his sister Sally, an apothecary, arrive at the Dutch settlement on the island of Manhattan. Violence and betrayal soon make the siblings enemies, beginning a feud that resonates for generations. Violence, some descriptions of sex, and some strong language. 2001.

Knickerbocker's History of New York, DB030658, by Washington Irving

Knickerbocker is an imaginary historian who records the early history of New York when it was still New Amsterdam, perceiving the traditions of the city in a comic manner. 1956.

 

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