RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People) is celebrating a successful year for its Talking Books with more than 11,000 new members subscribing since the service became free in November 2015.

Mark McCree, Senior Manager of Library and Heritage Services at RNIB said: “It is amazing that our Talking Books service has seen a 30 per cent growth in its membership at a time when library services across the country are struggling in the face of severe cuts.

“We know how important our accessible library service is for helping our customers maintain their independence, and the enjoyment that Talking Books can provide for people with sight loss.”

The RNIB library can be used by anyone who has difficulty reading standard print books, including those with dyslexia as well as sight loss conditions.

More than 25,000 Talking Books are available in a range of formats including USB, CD and MP3 download. RNIB’s accessible library provision also offers books in giant print and braille making it the largest of its kind in Europe with around 60,000 accessible items.

RNIB works tirelessly to ensure that the library is up-to-date with the latest titles.

It costs RNIB around £2,500 to record each adult’s audio book and around £1,500 for a children’s book.

For more information about sponsoring a book please visit: http://www.rnib.org.uk/sponsortalkingbooks .

To find out more about the RNIB Library or to sign up for Talking Books call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk/library .