Books without Barriers - Accessible books, magazines and periodicals

 Readers with print disabilities in Canada have access to a rapidly expanding collection of accessible books.

Bookshare, the world’s largest online library for individuals with print disabilities has over 22,000 books for readers in Canada, including bestsellers, children’s books, reference books, classics, fiction and nonfiction direct from publishers.

Who may join?

Anyone with a qualifying print disability may join Bookshare. A print disability is a physically-based disability that makes it very difficult or impossible to read standard print, such as blindness or low vision, a physical disability in which an individual cannot hold a book or turn the pages of a book, or a severe learning disability that affects reading, like severe dyslexia. The Canadian requirements for Bookshare membership are the same as the U.S. requirements. Learn more about qualifications to join Bookshare.

What books can I access?

Canadian residents have access to books where publishers have specifically granted Canadian or global rights and to all freely distributable titles (e.g. U.S. public domain or Creative Commons licensed). The library has over 22,000 books available to Canadian residents today. As more and more publishers provide digital files of books with worldwide rights, that number will continue to grow. When you log in as a Member, Bookshare displays only the books you can download as a resident of Canada.

How much does it cost to become a Member?

If you have a qualifying print disability, you can sign up for a Bookshare membership for a $75 (USD) initial annual fee. Subsequent annual renewals are $50 (USD.).

How do I sign up?

For individuals:

1. Register
2. Provide Proof of Disability
3. Pay by credit card online.

For organizations:

1. Register
2. Provide Group Proof of Disability
3. Purchase book blocks