First-time keyboard guide
Use this short routine before following the BARD Mobile Manual procedures. It explains exactly how the keyboard directions in this manual work.
Press a single key
- Find the named key without pressing it if possible.
- Press and release the key one time. Do not hold it unless the step specifically says to hold it.
- Stop and listen to the full screen-reader announcement before pressing another key.
Press a keyboard combination
- When a command contains a plus sign, such as Ctrl+S, hold down the first key.
- While continuing to hold the first key, press and release the final key once.
- Release the first key. The plus sign is not a key and should not be pressed.
- Listen for the expected result described in the procedure. If nothing changes, verify that the correct application or webpage has focus and try the command once more.
Press a sequence of keys
- When keys are separated by commas or the word “then,” press and release them in order instead of holding them together.
- After each key, listen for a menu, tab, control, or new screen before continuing.
- If the announcement does not match the step, press Escape once to close the current menu or dialog and restart that procedure.
Know which navigation key to try
- Tab and Shift+Tab: move forward and backward among buttons, links, fields, and other controls.
- Arrow keys: move inside menus, lists, groups of choices, text, and many screen-reader reading views.
- Enter: opens the selected item or activates the focused command.
- Space: activates many buttons and checks or clears checkboxes. In a text field, Space types a space.
- Escape: cancels or closes the current menu, list, or dialog without intentionally accepting a change.
Verify before moving on
- Listen for the window, page, or application name so you know where focus is.
- Perform only one numbered step.
- Compare what the screen reader announces with the “What should happen” information in the procedure.
- If the result is wrong, stop. Use the procedure’s recovery directions, Escape to cancel, or Ctrl+Z to undo when that command is supported.
- Continue only after you can identify the result. Save completed work with Ctrl+S whenever the application supports saving.
First complete independent workflow
This rehearsal joins existing procedures into one uninterrupted session without repeating their directions. Follow the linked procedure when a step names it, then return here for the next verification.
Safety check: Confirm the exact device model, firmware or software version, active connection, battery level, and storage location before using a command.
- Open BARD Mobile Manual and wait until its name, starting screen, or connected-device status is announced.
- Choose a fictional, public, disposable, or instructor-provided practice item. Do not use private client, student, medical, financial, or account-recovery information.
- Open 2.1 Complete the First-Time BARD Password Step. Read its “What you will learn,” “Before you begin,” keyboard-command, and expected-result information before pressing anything.
- Complete that procedure one numbered action at a time. After each key, stop and identify what changed before continuing.
- State the result aloud or record it in a practice note. If it differs from “What should happen,” use that procedure’s recovery directions before advancing.
- Continue directly to 3.1 Install BARD Mobile on iPhone/iPad without closing the application or device session. First confirm that focus, account, file, book, conversation, or project context is still correct.
- Complete the second procedure and verify the resulting name, state, location, permission, value, or content. Do not rely only on a success sound.
- Save or synchronize when the product supports it. Wait for the completed state before disconnecting a device, closing a browser, or switching accounts.
- Continue to 3.2 Install BARD Mobile on Android. Use the exact command listed there; if the command varies by model or version, use Keyboard Help, the product’s shortcut list, or the linked official reference instead of guessing.
- Introduce one harmless recoverable error, such as opening the wrong menu or moving focus away. Press Escape once, identify the active window or device area, and return to the correct step.
- Review the finished practice item from its beginning. Confirm its title or filename, structure, content, destination, sharing state, and saved or synchronized status as applicable.
- Close and reopen the item or return to it from the product’s main screen. The workflow is complete only when you can locate it and verify the same result independently.
Success standard: Complete all three linked tasks, explain the commands used, recover from the practice error, and locate the finished result without another person directing the next key.
National Library Service: BARD and BARD Mobile
Purpose: This manual teaches BARD Mobile from the beginning. It covers finding, downloading, managing, and reading NLS audio and braille titles, with separate VoiceOver and TalkBack instructions where the platforms differ.
Current reference: The manual uses the current NLS BARD Mobile iOS guide and the current Android 2.1.1 guide. NLS app screens and available features can change, so the built-in BARD Mobile User Guide remains the final authority for a particular app version.
Who can use BARD Mobile: BARD Mobile is for eligible NLS patrons with an established BARD account. New BARD users must create/change their initial password through the BARD website before signing into BARD Mobile.
How to Use This Manual
Learn the four main BARD Mobile areas first: Bookshelf, Get Books, Settings, and Now Reading.
Download a title before expecting it to appear in Bookshelf or play offline.
Opening a downloaded title moves you to Now Reading.
Audio and braille titles have different Now Reading controls.
VoiceOver users can use a two-finger double tap as a fast Play/Stop command once BARD Mobile is the active media app.
TalkBack users can also use a two-finger double tap for Play/Stop when BARD Mobile is the most recently playing audio app.
Use the Navigation screen or Jump by controls for chapters, sections, pages, bookmarks, and other navigation points when the title provides them.
Deleting a downloaded title removes the local copy; you can normally download it again from BARD later.
Downloads require an internet connection. Once a title is fully downloaded, reading normally works offline.
Braille books require a refreshable braille display for practical reading in BARD Mobile.
Part 1 - What BARD and BARD Mobile Are
BARD stands for Braille and Audio Reading Download. It is the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS) download service. BARD Mobile is the mobile app for downloading and reading BARD audio and braille material on supported phones and tablets.
Audio books and magazines: narrated digital talking books.
Braille books and magazines: electronic braille titles intended for a refreshable braille display.
Bookshelf: titles already downloaded to the device.
Get Books: search and browse BARD for material to download.
Settings: playback, braille/display, account, and accessibility-related settings.
Now Reading: controls for the currently opened audio or braille title.
Part 2 - Get a BARD Account and First Password
2.1 Complete the First-Time BARD Password Step
What you will learn: Understand why a new account may not work in BARD Mobile immediately.
Before you begin: You must already be an eligible NLS patron or have submitted the BARD application.
Exactly how to do it
Open the email from your NLS network library containing BARD login information.
Activate the password-creation or temporary-login link.
Use a web browser to create the permanent password according to the rules on the page.
Confirm the password and submit.
Complete the BARD reading pledge when required.
Write/store the BARD login information securely in an accessible password manager if you use one.
Only after this web step, open BARD Mobile and sign in.
What should happen: The BARD website accepts the permanent password and your account is ready for BARD Mobile.
If that does not happen: If the temporary password or setup link has expired, contact your network library instead of repeatedly guessing passwords.
Practice: Explain the difference between an NLS library account and a BARD login.
Part 3 - Install and Sign In
3.1 Install BARD Mobile on iPhone/iPad
What you will learn: Install the official NLS app from Apple's App Store.
Before you begin: Use your own Apple ID/device.
Exactly how to do it
Open the App Store.
Use Search and type BARD Mobile.
Find the app published for the National Library Service / Library of Congress.
Activate Get/Download.
After installation, open BARD Mobile.
Enter the BARD username/email and permanent password.
Activate Sign In.
What should happen: The app opens to its main interface and presents the BARD Mobile tabs.
If that does not happen: If sign-in fails, verify that you completed the first-time password step on the BARD website and that the credentials are typed exactly.
Practice: Install/open the app and identify the first screen.
3.2 Install BARD Mobile on Android
What you will learn: Install the official BARD Mobile app from Google Play.
Before you begin: Use your own Android device and Google account.
Exactly how to do it
Open Google Play Store.
Search for BARD Mobile.
Choose the official NLS/Library of Congress application.
Activate Install.
Open the app after installation.
Enter the BARD account credentials.
Activate Sign In.
What should happen: BARD Mobile opens under your BARD account.
If that does not happen: If Android warns about an old incompatible app or the wrong publisher, do not install it; return to the official Play Store result.
Practice: Open the app and identify Bookshelf.
Part 4 - Learn the Four Main Tabs
| Tab | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Bookshelf | Downloaded audio books/magazines, braille books/magazines, help/user guide, and local organization. |
| Get Books | Search, Wish List, Recently Added, Most Popular, Browse Magazines, Previous Downloads, and Search Music where available. |
| Settings | Audio settings, Braille and Display settings, user/account settings, and accessibility/device settings depending on platform. |
| Now Reading | Player/reader for the currently opened title. |
iPhone/iPad orientation: The four-tab bar is at the bottom of the screen from left to right: Bookshelf, Get Books, Settings, Now Reading.
Android orientation: The current Android guide places the tab bar near the top, below the action bar. Device navigation controls at the bottom belong to Android, not BARD Mobile.
4.1 Move Through the Main Tabs
What you will learn: Know where you are before choosing a command.
Before you begin: BARD Mobile is signed in.
Exactly how to do it
Move screen-reader focus to the tab bar.
Focus Bookshelf and listen for selected/not selected state.
Move to Get Books and activate it.
Move to Settings and activate it.
Move to Now Reading. If no book is open, expect it to be unavailable or to report that no book is selected.
Return to Bookshelf.
What should happen: You can identify every major app area.
If that does not happen: If your tab position differs from this manual, read the built-in User Guide because app layout can vary by platform/version.
Practice: Move through all four tabs without getting lost.
Part 5 - Bookshelf
Bookshelf contains material stored on the device. The exact categories can include Audio Books, Audio Magazines, Braille Books, Braille Magazines, and Help/User Guide items.
5.1 Open a Bookshelf Category
What you will learn: Find downloaded titles by format.
Before you begin: At least one title has been downloaded.
Exactly how to do it
Activate Bookshelf.
Move through the category list.
Activate Audio Books, Audio Magazines, Braille Books, or Braille Magazines.
Use screen-reader navigation through the list of titles.
Listen for title, author, length/volume information, and More Info when present.
Use the Back control to return to Bookshelf.
What should happen: The selected category shows downloaded titles.
If that does not happen: If the category is empty, download a title from Get Books first.
Practice: Open Audio Books and return.
Built-in help: NLS places the BARD Mobile User Guide in the app. On iOS, NLS documents Bookshelf > Help > BARD Mobile User Guide. Use this guide whenever the app differs from a printed manual.
Part 6 - Get Books
Get Books is the discovery/download area. Current NLS guides list Search, Wish List, Recently Added to BARD, Most Popular Books, Browse Magazines, Previous Downloads, and Search Music.
6.1 Explore Get Books
What you will learn: Understand the available ways to find reading material.
Before you begin: Internet access is available.
Exactly how to do it
Activate Get Books.
Move through each option without activating it at first.
Listen for Search, Wish List, Recently Added, Most Popular, Browse Magazines, Previous Downloads, and Search Music when available.
Activate Search.
Use Back to return to Get Books.
What should happen: You know where the discovery options are located.
If that does not happen: If an option such as Search Music is not present, it may not be available in your app/account version.
Practice: Identify every Get Books option on your device.
Part 7 - Search for a Title
7.1 Search by Title or Author
What you will learn: Locate a specific BARD item.
Before you begin: Know part of a title or author name.
Exactly how to do it
Open Get Books.
Activate Search.
Move to the search field.
Type a distinctive title or author phrase.
Submit the search.
Move through results.
Activate More Info/details for an interesting title before downloading.
Review title, author, narrator/format, book number, annotation, and available actions.
What should happen: Search results matching the terms appear.
If that does not happen: If results are too broad, use a more distinctive phrase or confirm spelling.
Practice: Search for one author and one title.
Part 8 - Wish List, Recently Added, Popular, Magazines, and Previous Downloads
Wish List: titles saved for later. The More Actions screen can add/remove a title from the Wish List.
Recently Added to BARD: newly added titles.
Most Popular Books: commonly downloaded titles.
Browse Magazines: magazine titles/issues available through BARD.
Previous Downloads: useful for finding material you downloaded earlier, including titles deleted from the current device.
Search Music: specialized music material when available.
8.1 Use Previous Downloads to Recover a Deleted Title
What you will learn: Re-download something you removed locally.
Before you begin: You previously downloaded and deleted a title.
Exactly how to do it
Open Get Books.
Activate Previous Downloads.
Find the title.
Open its More Info/More Actions screen.
Activate Download.
Wait for the download to finish.
Open Bookshelf and verify the title returned.
What should happen: The title is available on the device again.
If that does not happen: If the title is no longer available from BARD, contact your network library for help.
Practice: Locate one previous download without downloading it again unless desired.
Part 9 - Download a Title
9.1 Download an Audio Book
What you will learn: Save a title for reading.
Before you begin: Internet access is available and you have enough device storage.
Exactly how to do it
Find the title in Get Books.
Open More Info/More Actions.
Activate Download.
Listen for download status/progress.
Keep the app active until download is complete when your platform restricts background downloading.
After completion, open Bookshelf > Audio Books.
Find the downloaded title.
What should happen: The title appears in Bookshelf and can be opened in Now Reading.
If that does not happen: On iPhone/iPad, NLS notes that BARD Mobile may continue playing audio in the background but cannot continue downloading while the app is inactive. Return to BARD Mobile until the download completes.
Practice: Download one short title or magazine issue.
Data use: Audio books can be large. In BARD Mobile Settings, review whether downloads over the mobile/cellular network are allowed before downloading away from Wi-Fi.
Part 10 - Open and Read a Downloaded Title
10.1 Start Reading from Bookshelf
What you will learn: Open a locally downloaded title.
Before you begin: A title is fully downloaded.
Exactly how to do it
Activate Bookshelf.
Choose the appropriate category.
Find the title.
Activate the title name or Read action.
Wait for BARD Mobile to switch to Now Reading.
Locate Play/Stop.
Activate Play.
What should happen: Narration begins for an audio title, or the braille reading interface opens for a braille title.
If that does not happen: If Now Reading opens but does not play, verify the download completed and activate Play/Stop.
Practice: Open a downloaded title and stop it after a few seconds.
Part 11 - Now Reading for Audio
Current NLS guides show the audio Now Reading screen with title information, current section, elapsed/current position, navigation, progress, sleep timer, bookmark, Previous/Jump by/Next, Rewind/Play-Stop/Fast Forward, and Speed/Tone. Exact visual order differs between iOS and Android.
Current title and section tell you what is open and where you are.
Reading time/progress shows the position within the audio title.
Navigation provides structured contents, pages when available, and bookmarks.
Sleep Timer automatically stops reading after a selected interval or navigation point.
Bookmark marks the current position.
Jump by determines what Previous/Next mean.
Rewind/Play-Stop/Fast Forward control continuous playback.
Speed/Tone changes playback characteristics.
Part 12 - Play, Stop, Rewind, and Fast Forward
12.1 Play and Stop Audio
What you will learn: Control continuous playback.
Before you begin: An audio title is open in Now Reading.
Exactly how to do it
Focus Play/Stop.
Activate it once.
Listen for playback to begin or stop.
Activate it again to reverse the state.
What should happen: Playback toggles between playing and stopped.
If that does not happen: If nothing plays, verify media volume, audio output, and that the title finished downloading.
Practice: Start and stop playback three times.
VoiceOver shortcut: NLS documents a two-finger double tap as a quick Play/Stop gesture on iPhone/iPad without first locating the button.
TalkBack shortcut: NLS documents the same two-finger double tap for BARD Mobile on Android when BARD Mobile is the most recently playing audio app.
12.2 Rewind or Fast Forward
What you will learn: Move by time rather than chapter/section.
Before you begin: An audio title is open.
Exactly how to do it
Focus Rewind.
Activate it once to move backward by a small amount (current NLS guides use five seconds).
Focus Fast Forward.
Activate it once to move forward by a small amount.
Use the press-and-hold/double-tap-and-hold method when your platform offers larger spoken time jumps.
Release on the desired amount.
What should happen: The reading position moves backward or forward in time.
If that does not happen: If you need a chapter rather than a time jump, use Jump by or Navigation instead.
Practice: Rewind 5 seconds, then fast-forward 5 seconds.
Part 13 - Jump by Chapter, Section, Page, or Bookmark
13.1 Change the Jump-by Level
What you will learn: Decide what Previous and Next should move through.
Before you begin: An audio title is open.
Exactly how to do it
Find the Jump by menu/navigation-level control between Previous and Next.
Activate it repeatedly or open its choices.
Listen to the available navigation types. They depend on the title and may include chapter, part, section, article, phrase, page, or bookmark.
Stop on the navigation type you want.
Activate Previous or Next.
What should happen: The reading position moves by one item of the selected navigation type.
If that does not happen: Not every title contains page or detailed chapter navigation. Choose one of the navigation types the title actually provides.
Practice: Switch between chapter and bookmark navigation.
Long navigation jump: The current Android guide documents a long press/double-tap-and-hold on Previous or Next to move by five navigation points, or ten pages when page navigation is selected.
Part 14 - Navigation Screen
14.1 Open Structured Navigation
What you will learn: Choose a chapter/page/bookmark from a list.
Before you begin: A title is open.
Exactly how to do it
Activate the Navigation button.
Locate the toolbar/tabs in the Navigation screen.
Choose Contents to review structural headings.
Choose Page if the title supports page navigation.
Choose Bookmark to see Beginning, saved bookmarks, and End.
Activate the desired item.
Wait for BARD Mobile to close Navigation and move the reading position.
What should happen: The title moves directly to the chosen location.
If that does not happen: If Page is disabled, the title does not provide page navigation. Use Contents or another navigation method.
Practice: Open Contents and select a chapter in a practice title.
Part 15 - Sleep Timer
| Activation | Typical current option |
|---|---|
| First activation | 15 minutes |
| Second quick activation | 30 minutes |
| Third quick activation | 45 minutes |
| Fourth quick activation | 60 minutes |
| Fifth quick activation | End of current navigation point |
| Sixth quick activation | Off |
15.1 Set a 30-Minute Sleep Timer
What you will learn: Stop audio automatically after 30 minutes.
Before you begin: An audio title is open.
Exactly how to do it
Focus the Sleep Timer button.
Activate it once and listen for 15 minutes.
Activate it again quickly and listen for 30 minutes.
Stop activating the button once 30 minutes is announced.
Check the sleep status if your platform displays it.
What should happen: A 30-minute sleep timer is active; if the book was stopped, starting the timer may also begin playback.
If that does not happen: If the second activation occurs too slowly, the screen reader may merely repeat the current value. Activate again in quick succession or cycle until the intended option is announced.
Practice: Set 15 minutes, then cycle to Off.
Cancel behavior: Activating Play/Stop stops playback and cancels the active sleep timer. Cycling the Sleep button to Off cancels the timer without necessarily stopping playback.
Part 16 - Bookmarks
16.1 Insert a Bookmark
What you will learn: Save an exact reading position.
Before you begin: A title is open at a place you want to remember.
Exactly how to do it
Stop or leave playback running according to your preference.
Focus Bookmark.
Activate it once.
Listen for confirmation.
What should happen: A bookmark is stored for this title and remains available after closing the app.
If that does not happen: If you are already exactly on a user bookmark, activating the same control may remove it rather than add another.
Practice: Insert a bookmark in a practice title.
16.2 Return to a Bookmark
What you will learn: Navigate back to a saved place.
Before you begin: At least one bookmark exists.
Exactly how to do it
Open Navigation and choose Bookmark, or select Jump by Bookmark.
If using Navigation, move through the bookmark list and activate the desired bookmark.
If using Jump by, activate Previous or Next until you reach the desired bookmark.
Resume playback.
What should happen: The title returns to the bookmarked location.
If that does not happen: If no user bookmark appears, confirm it was created in this same title. Bookmarks belong to individual titles.
Practice: Create two bookmarks and move between them.
16.3 Remove a Bookmark
What you will learn: Delete a bookmark you no longer need.
Before you begin: A user-created bookmark exists.
Exactly how to do it
Stop playback if that makes the position easier to confirm.
Navigate exactly to the bookmark.
Activate Bookmark again.
Listen for confirmation that it was removed.
What should happen: The bookmark disappears from the title's bookmark list.
If that does not happen: Beginning-of-book/end-of-book navigation entries are not ordinary user bookmarks and cannot be removed.
Practice: Remove one practice bookmark.
Part 17 - Speed, Tone, and Reading Position
17.1 Adjust Playback Speed
What you will learn: Make narration faster or slower.
Before you begin: An audio title is open.
Exactly how to do it
Focus the Speed control/slider.
Use the screen-reader adjust-value gesture: VoiceOver flick up/down on an adjustable control; TalkBack swipe up/down as configured for adjustable controls.
Listen to the new percentage/rate.
Play a sample.
Adjust again until speech remains comfortable and understandable.
What should happen: Narration speed changes without changing the book text.
If that does not happen: If the control does not adjust, make sure the slider itself—not its label—has focus.
Practice: Try at least three speeds and return to a comfortable setting.
17.2 Move with the Progress Slider
What you will learn: Jump approximately through a title.
Before you begin: You understand that this is less precise than chapter navigation.
Exactly how to do it
Focus the current-position/progress slider.
Adjust it in small increments with the screen-reader slider gesture.
Listen to the percentage/current position.
Move focus away after reaching the intended area.
Use chapter/section controls for finer logical navigation.
What should happen: The reading position changes by percentage.
If that does not happen: If you overshoot, adjust in the opposite direction or use structured navigation.
Practice: Move forward about five percent and return.
Part 18 - Recently Read
18.1 Return to a Recently Read Title
What you will learn: Switch books without searching Bookshelf.
Before you begin: You have opened more than one title.
Exactly how to do it
Open Now Reading.
Activate Recently Read.
Move through titles with the most recent near the top.
Listen for whether each title is audio or braille.
Activate the title you want.
What should happen: The selected title opens at its remembered reading position.
If that does not happen: Deleted titles are normally removed from Recently Read; re-download them first if needed.
Practice: Switch between two recently read titles.
iOS gesture: The current iOS guide also documents a three-finger flick left from the Now Reading area to open Recently Read.
Part 19 - Delete and Re-Download Titles
19.1 Delete a Downloaded Title on iPhone/iPad
What you will learn: Free device storage without losing BARD account access to the title.
Before you begin: Use a disposable or easily re-downloadable title.
Exactly how to do it
Open Bookshelf and the correct category.
Use Edit or the VoiceOver actions/More Info workflow available in the current version.
Select the title for deletion.
Activate Delete and confirm when asked.
Return to the list and verify it is gone.
What should happen: The local downloaded copy is removed.
If that does not happen: If you did not intend to remove it, locate it in Previous Downloads or Search and download it again.
Practice: Delete and re-download a short practice title if desired.
19.2 Delete a Downloaded Title on Android
What you will learn: Remove a local title safely.
Before you begin: Use a practice title.
Exactly how to do it
Open Bookshelf and the appropriate category.
Open the title's More Options/More Actions or selection controls.
Choose Delete.
Confirm the title name before final deletion.
Return to the list.
What should happen: The downloaded copy is removed from the device.
If that does not happen: If Delete is not in the first menu, look for Edit/selection mode or the title's More Info actions.
Practice: Locate the delete command without activating it on an important book.
Part 20 - Audio Settings and Background Playback
Audio Settings can include default speed/tone and playback behavior.
Background Playback allows audio to continue when you move away from BARD Mobile, depending on platform/settings.
On Android, NLS documents the two-finger media Play/Stop gesture working away from the app when Background Playback is on and BARD Mobile is the most recently playing media app.
On iOS, system media controls and the two-finger VoiceOver magic tap can control the current BARD Mobile audio session.
20.1 Review Audio Settings
What you will learn: Know which settings affect every title rather than only the current book.
Before you begin: BARD Mobile is open.
Exactly how to do it
Activate Settings.
Open Audio Settings.
Move through every control and listen to the current value.
Identify default playback speed, tone, background playback, or related options available in your version.
Change only one setting at a time.
Return to Now Reading and test the result.
What should happen: You understand the difference between a global setting and a control on the current Now Reading screen.
If that does not happen: If app behavior no longer matches the user guide, restore defaults or review recently changed Settings.
Practice: Identify every Audio Settings control on your device.
Part 21 - Cellular Downloads and Storage
21.1 Control Mobile/Cellular Downloads
What you will learn: Avoid unexpected mobile-data use.
Before you begin: BARD Mobile is signed in.
Exactly how to do it
Open Settings.
Open User Account Settings.
Find Download over Mobile Network/Cellular Data.
Listen to its current state.
Turn it off if you want downloads to occur only over Wi-Fi.
Return to the main app.
What should happen: BARD Mobile follows the chosen mobile-data preference.
If that does not happen: If a download will not start away from Wi-Fi, this setting may be intentionally off.
Practice: Find the setting and decide which state you prefer.
Storage: Audio and braille titles use device storage. Delete completed/unneeded downloads when space is low, then re-download them later if needed.
Part 22 - Reading Braille Titles
BARD braille titles are electronic braille. The current NLS iOS guide states that a connected refreshable braille display and VoiceOver are required for practical reading. Speech does not convert the braille file into ordinary spelled-out print text, so speech may sound confusing while the braille file itself is correct.
22.1 Open a Braille Title
What you will learn: Read downloaded braille using a refreshable display.
Before you begin: Connect the braille display through the device screen reader first.
Exactly how to do it
Download a braille title from Get Books.
Open Bookshelf > Braille Books or Braille Magazines.
Activate the title/Read action.
Wait for Now Reading.
Use the braille display to read the text.
Use BARD navigation controls or the documented braille shortcut keys for volume, page, line, bookmark, and navigation actions.
What should happen: Braille text appears on the display and the reading position moves through the title.
If that does not happen: If the display works elsewhere but not BARD Mobile, verify the display is connected to VoiceOver/TalkBack and that the braille title is fully downloaded.
Practice: Open a short braille title and read several lines.
Part 23 - Refreshable Braille Displays
23.1 Connect Before Opening BARD Braille
What you will learn: Use the correct order for reliable braille access.
Before you begin: Know the pairing instructions for your braille display.
Exactly how to do it
Pair/connect the braille display in iOS VoiceOver or Android TalkBack braille settings.
Test braille output in a simple system app first.
Open BARD Mobile.
Open a braille title.
Test OUTPUT by reading title text.
Test INPUT by typing a supported shortcut or text where BARD permits it.
Test ROUTING by using cursor-routing controls where supported.
What should happen: The display communicates through the screen reader and BARD Mobile exposes braille content.
If that does not happen: If the display fails everywhere, troubleshoot the screen-reader/display connection before troubleshooting BARD Mobile.
Practice: Test output, input, and routing in that order.
Android legacy warning: Older NLS documentation mentions BrailleBack. Current Android accessibility has direct TalkBack braille-display support on supported devices, so follow the current TalkBack documentation for pairing rather than assuming BrailleBack is required.
Part 24 - Braille Reflow and Autoscroll
24.1 Turn On Braille Reflow
What you will learn: Adapt BARD braille line length to the display.
Before you begin: A refreshable braille display is connected.
Exactly how to do it
Open BARD Mobile Settings.
Open Braille and Display settings.
Find Braille Reflow.
Turn it on.
Choose the desired display length when the control is available.
Reopen the braille title and read several paragraphs.
What should happen: Lines reflow more naturally to the selected display length.
If that does not happen: Because reflow is automatic, occasional formatting errors can occur. Turn it off temporarily if a passage becomes confusing.
Practice: Compare one page with reflow off and on.
Current iOS shortcut: The current NLS iOS guide documents the letter d from a braille display as a shortcut to toggle Braille Reflow; if no display length is configured, the documented default is 40 cells.
24.2 Use Braille Autoscroll
What you will learn: Advance braille automatically when your version/display supports it.
Before you begin: Braille is connected and a title is open.
Exactly how to do it
Open Braille and Display settings.
Find Braille Autoscroll.
Review speed/options.
Enable it at a slow setting for practice.
Return to the braille book and observe automatic advancement.
Disable it when you need precise manual control.
What should happen: Braille advances automatically according to the chosen rate.
If that does not happen: If it moves too quickly, slow it immediately or turn it off.
Practice: Test for one minute at a comfortable speed.
Part 25 - iPhone/iPad with VoiceOver
One-finger swipe right/left: move to next/previous BARD control.
Double tap: activate the focused button/title.
Two-finger double tap: quick Play/Stop when BARD Mobile is the active/current media app.
One-finger flick up/down on sliders: adjust Speed or Progress by the increment VoiceOver exposes.
Double-tap-and-hold on sliders/buttons: finer slider adjustment or long-press behavior when NLS documents it.
Three-finger flick left in the Now Reading area: NLS documents this as an alternate way to open Recently Read.
Touch near the bottom edge to reach the four-tab bar quickly; Bookshelf is leftmost and Now Reading is rightmost.
25.1 Recover VoiceOver Focus in a Long BARD List
What you will learn: Return near the title you were reviewing instead of jumping to the top.
Before you begin: Open a long Recently Added/search list, then open More Info.
Exactly how to do it
Activate Back to return to the long list.
If focus lands on the Back/heading area, avoid immediately flicking repeatedly from the top.
Touch near the center of the screen where the previous list item was located.
Listen for VoiceOver to return near the previous position.
Continue normal swipe navigation.
What should happen: Focus returns near the previous list location more efficiently.
If that does not happen: If the list resets to the top, use Search/filter or the list index when available to reach the desired area.
Practice: Practice with a long list and a More Info screen.
Part 26 - Android with TalkBack
One-finger swipe right/left: next/previous BARD control in standard TalkBack navigation.
Double tap: activate the focused item.
Two-finger double tap: current media Play/Stop when BARD Mobile is the most recently playing audio app.
Double-tap-and-hold on Previous/Next: current NLS guide documents larger multi-navigation-point jumps.
Double-tap-and-hold on Rewind/Fast Forward: choose larger time jumps as BARD announces the amount.
The Android navigation bar/gesture area belongs to Android, not BARD Mobile.
The current Android app places BARD tabs near the top, beneath the action bar.
26.1 Use TalkBack to Change a Slider
What you will learn: Adjust BARD reading position or speed.
Before you begin: Focus a slider such as Progress or Speed.
Exactly how to do it
Listen for the slider name and current value.
Use TalkBack's adjust-control swipe gesture (commonly swipe up/down while the adjustable control is focused, depending on gesture configuration).
Listen to the new value.
Move focus away when finished to avoid accidental changes.
What should happen: The slider changes in predictable increments.
If that does not happen: If TalkBack changes reading controls instead of the slider, confirm the actual adjustable slider has focus.
Practice: Adjust speed and return to the original value.
Part 27 - Bluetooth, AirPlay, and External Audio
27.1 Listen Through Bluetooth Headphones/Speaker
What you will learn: Route BARD audio to an external device.
Before you begin: Pair the Bluetooth audio device in iOS/Android Settings first.
Exactly how to do it
Connect the headphones/speaker at the operating-system level.
Play a short BARD title.
Confirm narration comes from the intended device.
Adjust volume on the phone/tablet and external device as necessary.
If audio remains on the phone, open the operating-system audio-output control and select the Bluetooth device.
What should happen: BARD audio plays through the selected external device.
If that does not happen: If the device disconnects, BARD may resume through the phone/tablet speaker; pause playback before troubleshooting in public.
Practice: Connect and disconnect a headset while playback is stopped.
AirPlay on iOS: The current iOS guide includes an AirPlay control in the Now Reading title bar for sending audio to compatible devices.
Part 28 - Siri and Device Media Controls
The current NLS iOS guide documents optional Siri shortcuts for BARD Mobile, including Start playing, Stop playing, Sleep timer values, next/previous chapter, time jumps, and Bookmark. The exact Siri shortcut set depends on what is configured in BARD Mobile Settings and on the current iOS version.
28.1 Review BARD Siri Shortcuts
What you will learn: Use voice commands only after verifying which shortcuts are configured.
Before you begin: iPhone/iPad only; Siri is configured.
Exactly how to do it
Open BARD Mobile Settings.
Open Siri Settings.
Review the available BARD shortcuts and their spoken phrases.
Add or enable only the commands you expect to use.
Invoke Siri and say one configured phrase, such as Start playing.
Confirm the intended BARD action occurs.
What should happen: Siri performs the configured BARD command.
If that does not happen: If Siri asks to unlock the device, authenticate. NLS notes that some BARD-specific shortcuts require the device to be unlocked.
Practice: Configure/test one harmless playback command.
Part 29 - Offline Reading and Travel
Finish downloading every desired title before leaving reliable internet access.
Open each title once before travel to verify that it is complete and readable.
Keep enough device storage free for the titles you intend to carry.
Bring a charger/power bank for long listening sessions.
If using braille, test the display connection and charge both devices.
If using Bluetooth audio, remember that both the phone/tablet and headset require power.
Downloads require network access, but a fully downloaded title can normally be read without an active data connection.
Part 30 - Privacy and Account Safety
Keep your BARD password private and store it securely.
Do not share your BARD account credentials with other people.
Use device screen lock/passcode/biometrics because downloaded titles and account access reside on the device.
Be cautious with cellular downloads if your data plan has limits.
When using Bluetooth or AirPlay in public, confirm the audio destination before pressing Play.
If you lose a device containing BARD Mobile, use the platform's lost-device/account security tools and contact your network library if you are concerned about account access.
BARD materials are provided under NLS service terms and the BARD reading pledge; do not redistribute downloaded material.
Part 31 - Troubleshooting
31.1 Sign-In Fails
What you will learn: Check the most common BARD authentication causes.
Before you begin: You are on the BARD Mobile login screen.
Exactly how to do it
Confirm the username/email exactly.
Re-enter the password carefully.
If this is a new account, confirm you created the permanent password on the BARD website first.
Open the BARD website in a browser and test sign-in there.
If the website also fails, use the account-recovery process or contact your network library.
What should happen: You determine whether the problem is app input or the BARD account itself.
If that does not happen: Do not repeatedly guess until the account is locked or confused; contact NLS/network library support when credentials cannot be verified.
Practice: Explain the troubleshooting order aloud.
31.2 Download Stops or Never Finishes
What you will learn: Separate background/network/storage causes.
Before you begin: A download is in progress.
Exactly how to do it
Return to BARD Mobile and keep it active.
Check Wi-Fi/cellular connection.
On iPhone/iPad, remember NLS notes that downloading does not continue when the app is left in the background.
Check BARD Mobile mobile-network download settings.
Check device storage.
Pause/cancel and restart only after identifying the likely cause.
What should happen: The download resumes or the blocking cause is identified.
If that does not happen: If multiple titles fail over a working network, check BARD service status or contact your network library.
Practice: Download a short title and watch it complete.
31.3 No Sound
What you will learn: Recover audio without losing your reading place.
Before you begin: An audio title is open.
Exactly how to do it
Press Play/Stop and confirm the state.
Raise media volume.
Check whether Bluetooth/AirPlay is routing sound elsewhere.
Disconnect external audio temporarily.
Check device silent/audio settings as relevant.
Play another known audio source to test the device.
Return to BARD Mobile.
What should happen: You identify whether the problem is BARD playback or system audio routing.
If that does not happen: Do not delete the book as the first troubleshooting step; audio-output problems are usually unrelated to the download.
Practice: Identify the currently selected output device.
31.4 Previous/Next Goes to the Wrong Kind of Place
What you will learn: Fix the Jump by level.
Before you begin: An audio title is open.
Exactly how to do it
Find the Jump by/navigation-level control.
Listen to the selected level.
Change it to Chapter, Section, Page, Bookmark, or another intended level.
Use Previous/Next again.
What should happen: Previous/Next now moves by the intended structure.
If that does not happen: The title may not provide the navigation type you expected; use Navigation > Contents to inspect available structure.
Practice: Switch among two navigation levels.
31.5 Sleep Timer Will Not Set the Intended Value
What you will learn: Use rapid cycling and listen to every announcement.
Before you begin: Audio title is open.
Exactly how to do it
Focus Sleep Timer.
Activate once for 15 minutes.
Activate again quickly for 30 minutes.
Continue quickly through 45, 60, end of navigation point, and Off.
Stop when the intended setting is announced.
What should happen: The intended timer is active.
If that does not happen: If the screen reader repeats the current value before the amount, you may be activating too slowly. Use the split-tap technique on VoiceOver or deliberate TalkBack activation timing.
Practice: Set 30 minutes and then turn it Off.
31.6 Braille Title Produces Confusing Speech
What you will learn: Recognize the difference between braille data and print speech.
Before you begin: A braille title is open on iPhone/iPad.
Exactly how to do it
Confirm a refreshable braille display is connected through VoiceOver.
Read the title on the braille display rather than depending on spoken print output.
If desired, reduce/mute VoiceOver speech while keeping VoiceOver active so braille remains connected.
Use BARD braille navigation and reflow controls.
What should happen: Braille is readable on the display even if speech sounds nonsensical.
If that does not happen: If braille cells themselves are wrong, test the display in another app and verify braille table/language settings.
Practice: Read several lines with speech minimized.
31.7 App Does Not Match This Manual
What you will learn: Use the built-in current NLS guide before changing random settings.
Before you begin: A button or screen is in a different place.
Exactly how to do it
Open Bookshelf.
Open Help/User Guide.
Find the section for the screen you are using.
Check BARD Mobile Settings for customizations that change behavior.
Restore only the relevant default if necessary.
What should happen: You use version-matched instructions for the installed app.
If that does not happen: Avoid resetting the entire app/account just because one control moved.
Practice: Locate the built-in User Guide.
Part 32 - Independent Practice Course
Level 1 - Orientation
☐ Sign in.
☐ Identify Bookshelf.
☐ Identify Get Books.
☐ Identify Settings.
☐ Identify Now Reading.
Ready to advance: You can complete every checked task without another person telling you which control to activate.
Level 2 - Find a Book
☐ Open Get Books.
☐ Search by title.
☐ Open More Info.
☐ Add/remove from Wish List or inspect the command.
Ready to advance: You can complete every checked task without another person telling you which control to activate.
Level 3 - Download
☐ Download a short title.
☐ Monitor until complete.
☐ Find it in Bookshelf.
☐ Open it.
Ready to advance: You can complete every checked task without another person telling you which control to activate.
Level 4 - Basic Playback
☐ Play/Stop.
☐ Rewind 5 seconds.
☐ Fast forward 5 seconds.
☐ Use the two-finger media gesture with VoiceOver/TalkBack.
Ready to advance: You can complete every checked task without another person telling you which control to activate.
Level 5 - Navigation
☐ Change Jump by level.
☐ Use Previous/Next.
☐ Open Navigation.
☐ Choose a chapter.
Ready to advance: You can complete every checked task without another person telling you which control to activate.
Level 6 - Sleep and Bookmarks
☐ Set a 15-minute timer.
☐ Turn timer off.
☐ Create bookmark.
☐ Return to bookmark.
☐ Remove bookmark.
Ready to advance: You can complete every checked task without another person telling you which control to activate.
Level 7 - Speed and Progress
☐ Change speed.
☐ Adjust progress.
☐ Return to comfortable speed.
Ready to advance: You can complete every checked task without another person telling you which control to activate.
Level 8 - Library Management
☐ Open Recently Read.
☐ Open Previous Downloads.
☐ Delete a practice title.
☐ Find how to re-download it.
Ready to advance: You can complete every checked task without another person telling you which control to activate.
Level 9 - Settings
☐ Review Audio settings.
☐ Review mobile-data download setting.
☐ Review device storage.
☐ Explain background-download limitation.
Ready to advance: You can complete every checked task without another person telling you which control to activate.
Level 10 - Braille
☐ Connect display.
☐ Open braille title.
☐ Test output/input/routing.
☐ Try Braille Reflow.
Ready to advance: You can complete every checked task without another person telling you which control to activate.
Level 11 - Offline
☐ Download before disconnecting network.
☐ Verify title plays offline.
☐ Reconnect network afterward.
Ready to advance: You can complete every checked task without another person telling you which control to activate.
Level 12 - Independent Reading Session
☐ Find/download a title.
☐ Open it.
☐ Navigate to a chapter.
☐ Set speed.
☐ Add bookmark.
☐ Set sleep timer.
☐ Stop and return later at the remembered position.
Ready to advance: You can complete every checked task without another person telling you which control to activate.
Part 33 - Quick Reference
Main App Areas
| Area | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Bookshelf | Downloaded titles and Help/User Guide |
| Get Books | Search/browse/download BARD material |
| Settings | Audio, braille/display, account/accessibility options |
| Now Reading | Player/reader for the opened title |
Audio Now Reading
| Control | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Play/Stop | Start or stop narration |
| Rewind/Fast Forward | Move by time |
| Jump by | Choose chapter/section/page/bookmark/etc. |
| Previous/Next | Move by the selected Jump by level |
| Navigation | Contents, Page when available, Bookmark |
| Sleep Timer | 15/30/45/60 minutes, end of nav point, Off |
| Bookmark | Insert/remove bookmark at current position |
| Speed/Tone | Change narration playback characteristics |
| Recently Read | Switch to a recently opened title |
Screen Reader Shortcuts
| Platform/Task | Gesture |
|---|---|
| VoiceOver: activate focused control | One-finger double tap |
| VoiceOver: media Play/Stop | Two-finger double tap |
| VoiceOver: adjust slider | One-finger flick up/down |
| VoiceOver: Recently Read alternate gesture | Three-finger flick left from Now Reading area |
| TalkBack: activate focused control | One-finger double tap |
| TalkBack: media Play/Stop | Two-finger double tap |
| TalkBack: long press BARD button | Double tap and hold |
Sleep Timer Cycle
| Quick activations | Setting |
|---|---|
| 1 | 15 minutes |
| 2 | 30 minutes |
| 3 | 45 minutes |
| 4 | 60 minutes |
| 5 | End of navigation point |
| 6 | Off |
Part 34 - Official NLS Resources
Sign up for BARD and BARD Mobile
BARD Mobile Android 2.1.1 User Guide
NLS BARD Frequently Asked Questions
Final Independence Checklist
☐ I can explain what BARD and BARD Mobile are.
☐ I can sign in with an established BARD account.
☐ I can identify Bookshelf, Get Books, Settings, and Now Reading.
☐ I can search for and inspect a title.
☐ I can download a title and verify completion.
☐ I can open downloaded audio and braille material.
☐ I can play/stop, rewind, fast-forward, and change speed.
☐ I can change the Jump by level and use Previous/Next.
☐ I can use the Navigation screen.
☐ I can set/cancel the sleep timer.
☐ I can create, return to, and remove bookmarks.
☐ I can use Recently Read and Previous Downloads.
☐ I understand deleting a local title versus losing BARD account access.
☐ I can control cellular-download settings and storage.
☐ I can read BARD braille with a refreshable display.
☐ I can test braille output, input, and routing.
☐ I understand Braille Reflow.
☐ I can use VoiceOver or TalkBack efficiently in BARD Mobile.
☐ I can route audio to Bluetooth/AirPlay safely.
☐ I can prepare titles for offline travel.
☐ I can protect my BARD account and downloaded material.
☐ I can troubleshoot sign-in, downloads, audio routing, navigation level, sleep timer, and braille issues.
☐ I can open the built-in BARD Mobile User Guide when the app differs from this manual.
Most important habit: Before pressing a control, identify which layer you are in: Bookshelf/Get Books/Settings/Now Reading, audio versus braille title, and the currently selected navigation level. Most BARD Mobile confusion comes from being in the wrong tab or using Previous/Next with the wrong Jump by level.