When you register for library service, a CNIB Library representative reviews all the reading options with you so you can choose the services that are best for you.

This discussion will help the library to create your customized account, or profile, which lists the format of books you would like to receive, how often you would like to receive them and the kinds of books that interest you. This information is entered into a library data system and the service becomes automated at that point.

Here's an example:

• On your library profile, you may choose DAISY talking books on CD and decide to receive one book a week.

• To make sure you get books you are really interested in, you will flag your areas of interest from about 20 different categories - for example, everything from British mysteries, to biographies, to Canadian history. You can also ask for up to two movies a month.

• Using this information, the system will automatically pick material you are interested in and will send it out to you through Canada Post.

• You can also register for DAISY magazines, a monthly CD which includes Macleans, Chatelaine and others. You get them once a month on a single CD and you don't have to return it.

If you have a computer, you can sign up for the CNIB Digital Library where you can read books and newspapers online.

Can I select my own books?

Believe it or not, the library sends out about two million items a year, including the online services. When you have that kind of demand, it's great to have an automated system that can remember what you like. But if you decide you would rather select your own books, you can set up that type of service as well.

When will I start getting books?

Once you have completed your registration interview you can expect to get your first book in two to six weeks depending on postal delivery. If you register for The CNIB Digital Library, you will receive your password by e-mail within one week.

How do I change my preferences?

Once you have been receiving books for awhile you may find that some of them don't interest you any more. Because the system is automated, you will simply need to contact library services and swap that reading interest category for another one.

You can also call the library a few weeks in advance when you're going on vacation. Your service can be put on hold to ensure your mailbox is not full when you return.