[NFB-Idaho] Facsheet on funding the talking book program

[president at nfbidaho.org]

National Federation of the Blind of Idaho

Dana Ard, President

1320 E. Washington

Boise, ID 83712

(208) 345-3906

president at nfbidaho.org


NFBID Logo RGB Rect


 

 

Legislative Fact Sheet

 

Requesting $342,100 to Restore State funding for the Commission for
Libraries Talking Book Program

 

In 1931, the Pratt-Smoot act was passed to provide braille and recorded
materials for blind individuals. In 1966, people with physical disabilities
who are unable to access printed material were added to the service.
Currently the Idaho Commission for Libraries serves approximately 3,500
talking book users, which is 13% per capita higher than the national
average. This service equalizes access to all types of reading material and
serves as the public library for those who cannot access printed material.
Talking book patrons can receive materials directly from the Idaho
Commission for Libraries, or by downloading materials to a device such as an
iPhone, computer, Victor Reader Stream, or other electronic device. 

 

The Idaho Talking book program was funded with state funds until 2010, when
state funding was cut by 18%. In order to maintain the program, federal
Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds have been used. If state
monies were used to fund the Talking Book Program, the LSTA funds could be
used to enhance other statewide programs such as workforce development
activities, STEM education, etc. LSTA funds have been included in the 2019
federal budget, but there is no guarantee that they will continue in
subsequent years. If Idaho will not fund the Talking Book Program and
federal funds are lost, blind and other people who cannot utilize print
would no longer have access to recorded materials.  Additionally, the
provision of talking book services in each state is designed to be a
partnership with the Library of Congress, which provides the equipment and
recorded materials, and the state agency responsible for delivering the
service. 

 

One of the greatest challenges for blind people is access to print
information.  We need information just like everyone else.  Patrons use this
program for education, career development, participation in community book
clubs, and to read books that their friends or family members are reading.
Many readers state that the program is a lifeline for them.

 

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness does not define us
as people or define our future or limit our dreams. However the lack of
access to print materials will.  We appreciate the fall back resolution
which earmarked $200,000 for the Talking Book Program if federal funding was
lost.  We ask that you consider funding the Talking Book Service, so that
Idaho's blind and print disabled citizens can be guaranteed recorded
materials for years to come.

 

 

Dana Ard, President

National Federation of the Blind of Idaho

Main: 208-345-3906

Cell: 208-859-2828 (call only)

Email: president at NFBIdaho.org

Website: www.nfbidaho.org

"The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want;
Blindness is not what holds you back."  

 

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