[nfbmi-talk] grant helps library buy victor reader streams

[joe harcz Comcast]

http://www.thenews-messenger.com/article/20100602/NEWS01/6020315

Grant helps library buy digital readers for the visually impaired | thenews-messenger.com | The News-Messenger

FREMONT -- Birchard Public Library recently received a grant for $1,665 through the Library Services and Technology Act to buy six VictorReader Stream machines,

compact digital readers designed for use by the blind and visually impaired.

 

The digital reader allows users to download and listen to books from a variety of sources, including the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically

Handicapped.

 

The State Library of Ohio, in partnership with the Library Services and Technology Act Advisory Council, the National Federation of the Blind, and Universal

Low Vision Aids collaborated to develop the grant program.

 

With the grant, each digital reader cost the library $92.50, which was matched by $277.50 in federal funds. The Friends of Birchard Public Library contributed

$100 toward the purchase.

 

The VictorReader Streams will be available to patrons who qualify for the Talking Book Program, and will be loaned through the library's Outreach Department.

The library also plans to partner with the Sandusky County Board of Developmental Disabilities to see how the readers might benefit members of their next

chapter book club.

 

"The ability to download free audiobooks is expanding every day, and Birchard Public Library is now in a position to help make these resources available

to blind and disabled individuals in our communities," said library director Pam Hoesman.

 

For more information, visit

www.birchard.lib.oh.us

or call 419-334-7101.