Special Collections

Les Misérables

Les Miserables is the great epic masterpiece of the mid-nineteenth century. Begun in 1845, the year Louis Philippe conferred a peerage and a lifetime seat in the Senate upon Victor Hugo, it was completed when the author was living in exile in the Channel Islands. Les Miserables is a product as well as a document of the political, social, and religious upheaval that followed the Napoleonic Wars and Europe's great democratic revolutions. The story is centered on Jean Valjean, a peasant who enters the novel a hardened criminal after nineteen years spent in prison for stealing a loaf of bread for the starving children of his sister. The path of Valjean's last twenty-five years, leading from the French provinces to the battlefield of Waterloo and the ramparts of Paris during the Uprising of 1832, introduces us to secret societies of revolutionaries and the vast world of the French lower classes. Jean Valjean's flight from the police agent Javert--the prototype of over a hundred years of fictional detectives--culminates in one of the most famous scenes in all literature, the chase through the sewers of Paris. Les Miserables sold out its large first printing in twenty-four hours and has remained enormously popular. This edition is the classic English translation of Hugo's friend Charles Wilbour, which appeared the same year the novel was published in France.

Date Added: 01/15/2019

Art Not by Eye

The book, in two parts, deal with avenues for adventitiously blind adult, and the blind and severely visually impaired adults in the art program.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

A Paraprofessional's Handbook for Working with Students Who Are Visually Impaired

This book was written to help increase the effectiveness of paraprofessionals and identify ways to help them work with the visually impaired. It stresses team work with other education professionals and gives first hand suggestions to overcome challenges to help the student grow.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

The Leading Lady

Emmy award-winning actress Betty White may be a hit on the popular sitcom The Golden Girls; Tom Sullivan, bestselling author of If You Could See What I Hear may have made his mark as a multitalented performer, songwriter, and lecturer-but the real star of this heartwarming story is an extraordinary dog named Dinah. For nine years this beautiful golden retriever was Tom's best friend, his right arm-and his eyes. A world-class guide dog trained by the Leader Dog Foundation for the Blind, Dinah gave Tom, a man who has been blind since birth, his first real taste of independence. And she gave the entire Sullivan family-wife Patty, daughter Blythe, and son Tom, Jr.-unfaltering loyalty and love. Together, Tom and Dinah traveled this entire country countless times, and she led him safely through crowded airport terminals, city traffic, strange hotels, and onstage performances. But when Dinah reached the age of eleven, she began to lose her edge. Her eyes were no longer as sharp, her step not as sure. The once-assured guide dog became defensive and hesitant. Although Tom hated the idea of working with any dog but Dinah, it seemed to be his only choice, and Nelson, a black Labrador retriever, joined the family. Dinah, however, was not ready to settle back into a life of leisure in the Sullivan household while an interloper took over her job and her master. She stopped eating, began hiding away, and simply gave up on life. Yet Dinah's story has a whole new beginning.. .and her name is Betty White. In The Leading Lady, Tom and Betty, close friends for years who have become more like family thanks to their special golden girl, take turns talking about Dinah. Here is how the super canine came into Tom's life; the hard work and frustration man and dog endured to become a team; and the adventures--some traumatic, some joyful--that cemented the bond between them. Here, too, is how Betty rescued this gallant lady in distress and how caring, courageous Dinah became a full-fledged member of Betty's family overnight, with a brand-new job to do. Most of all, here is the essence of Dinah, a dog who made a positive difference in every life she touched.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Conquering Diabetes

Are you older than forty-five? Overweight, especially around the middle? Do you exercise less than you know you should? Does pre-diabetes-- or diabetes-- run in your family? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, you could be at risk for developing diabetes, a chronic and potentially life-threatening illness that is striking Americans in epidemic proportions. A combined 60 million people have diabetes or are at risk for developing it; its complications-- including heart disease, stroke, blindness, amputation, and kidney failure-- can be devastating, but they are not inevitable. With the proper program and treatment, in most cases, diabetes can be prevented-- even if you have already been diagnosed with pre-diabetes. and its complications reduced or eliminated entirely.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Making Impressions

This little handbook created by Guide Dog Users Inc. offers information, considerations and suggestions on what you should do when considering partnering with a guide dog. This book gives advice on what considerations you should take into account when choosing a guide dog school, questions and considerations you should ask yourself while in training. The book also gives an outline of what training is like, and things you should bring, as well, as things to help you as a new team after graduation. Advocacy is discussed as well as due process for those situations that can not be resolved. Excellent resource for anyone who is considering taking the plunge and working with a guide dog. And it is also good for those who arleady have a guide dog.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

To Race the Wind

The autobiography of Harold Krents, a young blind man who was a well-known lawyer in the early 1970's. Harold was the inspiration for the film and play, Butterflies Are Free.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Inner Vision

Craig MacFarlane lost his sight at age 2 and went on to become not only the world's greatest blind athlete, but a much-sought-after motivational speaker. His message is PRIDE -- Perseverance, Respect, Individuality, Desire and Enthusiasm.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Two Ends of a Leash

Two Ends of a Leash: Unshackled is the life story of author Grace D. Napier.

Born blind, Grace came from a humble home in New Jersey. She began school when there were no special education programs for children who were blind. The teachers and principal regarded Grace as not only blind, but also mentally retarded. Because they misunderstood her disability, they ignored her, letting her sit idle at her desk every day. Nevertheless, Grace had a hunger to learn.

When her parents heard about a special education program in the next city, Grace met Miss Katharine Taylor, her new special education teacher. Grace's life was forever changed, thanks to the influence of this gifted teacher. Now eighty-five, Grace resides in Colorado after a long career of teaching children and graduate students at three universities.

Grace began using Seeing Eye dog guides when she was seventeen years old. She is now working with her ninth dog, Esma (shown on the front cover). Read her fascinating and inspiring story.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Lessons I Learned in the Dark

Guidance for Your Journey Sometimes, God's Word is like candlelight that warms and comforts. Other times, it is a red flashing light that protects. Often, it's a spotlight that exposes your need. And since you are called to walk by faith, you need light-in all its various forms-guiding your steps. Jennifer Rothschild 's path, darkened by physical blindness, is illuminated by scriptural truth. And now she shares the keys to persevering and "clinging to the Sword" no matter what your circumstances. Lessons I Learned in the Lightis a powerful collection of Scripture, intriguing autobiographical sketches, and pointed Bible study with personal, practical application questions that will encourage you every step of the way. "Your word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. " Psalm 119:105 Have you known darkness? Are you there even now? There is a ray of hope that brings clarity and guidance: God's Word-the Light that is better than life. And it wields the power to see you through absolutely anything. Jennifer Rothschild , in her physical blindness, found the secret to persevering with endurance and shares it candidly. No matter what you face today,Lessons I Learned in the Lightwill help you: cling to His Word carry no baggage pray like crazy be God-conscious enjoy the fish bowl No matter how dark the road, you can travel it courageously, secure in the Light. "For these commands and this teaching are a lamp to light the way ahead of you" (Proverbs 6:23 , NLT). "Jennifer Rothschild is a sincere and transparent example of what it means to press toward the goal-to live a thriving, courageous life in Christ. " Sara Groves Singer/songwriter "Like the Renaissance artists of old, Jennifer Rothschild sees with her heart. Through self-discipline, acute observation, and Christ centeredness, the tapestry of her life has been woven together by an unshakeable faith. " Luci Swindoll Author and speaker, Women of Faith "Her gentle, pleasing style first draws readers in and captures their imaginations. Only then does she deliver her more powerful punches. " Publishers Weekly Story Behind the Book "I don't have the privilege of reading God's Word in the traditional sense, but I still rely on it as my source of power-power to persevere and thrive in a world of darkness. Without it, I would have quit a long time ago. Proverbs 6:23 says 'These commands and this teaching are a lamp to light the way ahead of you' (NLT). WhileLessons I Learned in the Darkprovided principles for walking by faith,Lessons I Learned in the Lightoffers fuel for running with endurance. " - Jennifer Rothschild From the Trade Paperback edition.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

A Tale of Two Cities

The premier novel of the French Revolution, by England&’s greatest authorSet against the bloodthirsty backdrop of revolutionary France, this monumental saga—one of the most famous works in all of literature—is at its heart the story of a beautiful woman and the two men who compete for her love: Charles Darnay, a French aristocrat who renounces his heritage, yet stands accused of treason in the rush to the guillotine, and Sydney Carton, a disillusioned English barrister who finds his salvation in the ultimate act of sacrifice.Full of rich historical details and populated by a sprawling cast of characters, Charles Dickens&’s masterwork is epic in every sense of the word. Yet its finest achievement may be the intimate moments shared by three people who have the foresight and the courage to see beyond the chaos that surrounds them. A novel whose contradictions are laid bare from the very start—&“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times&”—A Tale of Two Cities is the stuff of life, and great art. This ebook has been professionally proofread to ensure accuracy and readability on all devices.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Undaunted Courage

In this sweeping adventure story, Stephen E. Ambrose, the bestselling author od D-Day, presents the definitive account of one of the most momentous journeys in American history. Ambrose follows the Lewis and Clark Expedition from Thomas Jefferson's hope of finding a waterway to the Pacific, through the heart-stopping moments of the actual trip, to Lewis's lonely demise on the Natchez Trace. Along the way, Ambrose shows us the American West as Lewis saw it -- wild, awsome, and pristinely beautiful. Undaunted Courage is a stunningly told action tale that will delight readers for generations.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Why Don't They Like Me?

This book's practical approach helps parents teach age-appropriate skills such as starting conversations, joining in, expressing feelings, controlling anger, and more.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Blindsided

In many ways, Natalie O'Reilly is a typical fourteen year old girl. But a routine visit to the eye doctor produces devastating news: Natalie will lose her sight within a few short months. Suddenly her world is turned upside down. Natalie is sent to a school for the blind to learn skills such as Braille and how to use a cane. Outwardly, she does as she's told; inwardly, she hopes for a miracle that will free her from a dreaded life of blindness. But the miracle does not come, and Natalie ultimately must confront every blind person's dilemma. Will she go home to live scared? Or will she embrace the skills she needs to make it in a world without sight?

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Franchising

SPECIAL NOTE: The original text of this book is in a format similar to an outline but without an outline's conventions. In order to follow the author's intent the following has been adopted to clarify sentences and paragraphs that are subordinate to preceding text. A chapter's primary sentences and/or paragraphs are preceded by a single asterisk(*). A sentence or paragraph that is subordinate to the single asterisk sentence/paragraph will have two asterisks(**). A sentence that is subordinate to the one with two asterisks will have three asterisks(***) and so on. Ask most people what a franchise is and they will likely reply McDonalds or Burger King. This book outlines the many types of franchises available and serves a a primer for anyone interested in going into business for themselves. It includes information on both domestic and international franchising and provides guidance on getting in to franchising as a franchisor or a franchisee. It also provides insights about potential pitfalls.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Macular Disease

This invaluable guide to living well with vision loss is the perfect blend of abundant factual material and real-life experience. The book's positive, take-charge approach offers reassurance, hope, and hundreds of proven techniques, strategies, and tips for both the newly diagnosed and those at later stages of their disease. "My Story" vignettes in each chapter describe the author's fears, foibles, and triumphs in challenging situations. Readers will identify with the author's experiences and be encouraged by knowing she successfully traveled the same path.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Defiance

Eleven-year-old Toby Steiner wants to do normal things on his vacation. He wants to hike and race his bike down the hill. He wants to learn to fish out on the lake. He doesn't want to return to the children's hospital where his painful cancer treatment finally ended. When Toby starts spending time with Pearl, a spunky old woman who lives on a nearby farm, and Blossom, her broken-down cow, he sees all the more reason to keep the new lump on his side a secret from his parents. From Pearl he discovers the beauty of poetry, and from Blossom he just might uncover the meaning of life.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Overnight Career Choice

This book provides more than 275 job descriptions with information on each job's pay, growth, openings, education level, and skills needed. Additional information about major industries opens readers' eyes to different sectors where they may be able to build a rewarding career.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

When Blind Eyes Pierce the Darkness

With courage and determination, a young Greek girl journeyed to America to carve out a new life. Not long after her arrival, Kalliope married - only to have her dreams and aspirations ravaged by a disease that took her sight. Yet Kalliope faced life head-on and lived it to the fullest. Now eighty-four, Kalliope's thoughts, fears, hopes and dreams have been recorded by her son, Peter, in hopes that her keen insights will add to our understanding of life's choices and challenges.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

The Psychology of Self-Esteem

Self-esteem or self-evaluation determines the way we tackle every aspect of our lives. "Positive self-esteem operates, in effect, as the immune system of consciousness, providing resistance, strength, and a capacity for regeneration." (Nathaniel Branden)

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Assistive Technology for Visually Impaired and Blind People

Equal accessibility to public places and services is now required by law in many countries. In the case of the vision-impaired, it is often the use of specialised technology which can provide them with a fuller enjoyment of all the facilities of society from large scale meetings and public entertainments to the more personal level of reading a book or making music. In this volume the engineering and design principles and techniques used in assistive technology for blind and vision-impaired people are explained. Features:· instruction in the physiology of the human visual system and methods of measuring visual ability;· explanation of many devices designed for every-day living in terms of generic electrical engineering principles;· sections of practical projects and investigations which will give the reader ideas for student work and for self teaching;· contributions by authors of international repute from divers fields which co-operate under the banner of assistive technology, among them: artificial vision systems; psychology, haptics, electrical engineering, design and visual physiology. Assistive Technology for Vision-impaired and Blind People is an an effective means of maintaining the currency of knowledge for engineers and health workers working to provide devices and/or services for people with sight loss and an excellent source of reference for students working in assistive technology and rehabilitation.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

No One is Unemployable

Explains a 10-step process to overcome either the employer's or employee's barriers such as criminal record, lack of education, immigration, etc.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Touch The Top Of The World

The incredible, inspiring story of world-class climber Erik Weihenmayer, from the terrible diagnosis that foretold of the loss of his eyesight, to his dream to climb mountains, and finally his quest to reach each of the Seven Summits. Erik Weihenmayer was born with retinoscheses, a degenerative eye disorder that would progressively unravel his retinas. Erik learned from doctors that he was destined to lose his sight by age thirteen. Yet from early on, he was determined to rise above this devastating disability and lead a fulfilling, exciting life. In Touch the Top of the World, Erik recalls his struggle to push past the limits placed on him by his visual impairment--and by a seeing world. He speaks movingly of the role his family played in his battle to break through the barriers of blindness: the mother who prayed for the miracle that would restore her son's sight; the father who encouraged him to strive for that unreachable mountaintop. Erik was the first blind man to summit McKinley. Soon he became the first blind person to scale the infamous 3000-foot rock wall of El Capitan and then Argentina's Aconcagua, the highest peak outside of Asia. He was married to his longtime sweetheart at 13,000 feet on the Shira Plateau on his way to Kilimanjaro's summit, and recently Erik scaled Polar Circus, the 30,000-foot vertical ice wall in Alberta, Canada. Erik's story is about having the vision to dream big; the courage to reach for near impossible goals; and the grit, determination, and ingenuity to transform our lives into "something miraculous. "To download an audio excerpt from Touch the Top of the World, visit the American Foundation for the Blind Web site.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

Get Out of My Life But First Could You Drive Me and Cheryl to the Mall? A Parent's Guide to the New Teenager

A practical guide to raising the new breed of teenagers. What worked two generations ago will not work today. The author gives practical ways to approach the issues with todays teenagers from discipline to sexuality.

Date Added: 05/25/2017

No Finish Line

Marla Runyan was nine years old when she was diagnosed with Stargardt’s disease, an irreversible form of macular degeneration. With the uneasy but unwavering support of her parents, she refused to let their diagnosis limit her dreams. Despite her severely impaired, ever-worsening vision, Marla rode horseback and learned to play the violin. And she found her true calling in sports. A gifted and natural athlete, Marla began to compete in the unlikeliest event of all: the heptathlon, the grueling women’s equivalent of the decathlon, consisting of seven events: the 200-meter dash, high jump, shot put, 100-meter hurdles, long jump, javelin throw, and 800-meter run. In 1996, she astonished the sports world by qualifying for the U.S. Olympic Trials, in which she broke the American record for the heptathlon 800. It was then that she decided to concentrate on her running. Four years of intense effort paid off: in 2000, she qualified for the U.S. Olympic team by finishing third in the 1500 meters. In Sydney, she placed eighth in the finals and was the top American finisher—the highest women’s placing for the United States in the event’s history. Not long after her return to the States, she shattered the American indoor record for the 5000 meters. With endearing self-deprecation and surprising wit, Marla reveals what it’s like to see the world through her eyes, how it feels to grow up “disabled” in a society where expectations are often based on perceived abilities, and what it means to compete at the world-class level despite the fact that—quite literally, for her—there is no finish line.

Date Added: 05/25/2017