Texas Talking Book Voices

In this episode, Laura Jean and Becky explore the wide-ranging world of science fiction. They discuss popular subgenres, from time travel and dystopias to cyberpunk and space opera, as well as current trends like AI ethics and Afrofuturism. They also share tips for finding the right science fiction book based on your interests, whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the genre.

In this episode, Engagement Specialist Alicia and Program Engagement Manager Jaclyn take listeners all the way back to 1809 to trace the complete history of the Talking Book Program— from Louis Braille's birth and the founding of the National Library Service, through Texas joining the national network in 1931, to the digital audiobook players patrons use today. Learn how a $1,000 appropriation for raised-letter books grew into a free, statewide library service for Texans with visual, physical, and reading disabilities.  

In this episode, join Engagement Specialist Alicia as she explores how the Talking Book Program is celebrating America's 250th anniversary. Featuring guests Michele Chan Santos and Peggy Price from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, this episode highlights the Texas America250 Reading Challenge, traveling exhibits, and a special lobby exhibit showcasing Texas's contributions to American history. Learn more about how readers of all ages can participate in this statewide celebration at www.tsl.texas.gov/america250. 

In this episode, Engagement Specialist Alicia explores travel, leisure, and adventure for patrons with print, visual, and physical disabilities. She speaks with Margaret Koch, director of the Bullock Texas State History Museum, and Laney Kohout, Accessibility Engagement Specialist with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Together they cover common barriers travelers face, assistive technology and services that help, how the DIRC can support patrons on the road, and highlights from TBP's collection for the adventurous reader.

In this episode, Laura Jean and April explore the variety of magazines available through the Talking Book Program. They cover topics, formats, and access options, including Texas-specific publications and the Newsline service for newspapers. Listeners will also learn how to find and subscribe to magazines, making it easy to enjoy shorter, flexible reading options.

In this special episode, Volunteer Coordinator Laura celebrates Volunteer Appreciation Month by highlighting the voices behind the Talking Book Program. Through conversations with dedicated volunteers, you will get an inside look at what it’s like to narrate, review, and monitor audio books and magazines. Volunteers share how they got involved, what keeps them coming back, and how the experience has expanded their interests and connections. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the people who make TBP’s services possible.

Not sure how to find an audiobook you will actually enjoy? In this episode, TBP Reader Advisory Librarians Laura Jean and RC talk about one of the most common questions they get from patrons: "How can I learn a new language?" They discuss resources available through the Talking Book Program, including self-instruction programs in braille and audio format, study guides, phrasebooks, and foreign language materials.

Not sure how to find an audiobook you will actually enjoy? In this episode, Reader’s Advisory Librarians Laura Jean and Kayleigh share simple tips for choosing the right format, narrator, and genre, along with easy ways to improve focus while listening. This episode offers practical advice for new and returning audiobook listeners and highlights how TBP librarians can help you discover your next great read.

In this special episode celebrating Braille Literacy Month, meet Inez, the Braille Office Assistant at TBP. In this episode, Inez will share her journey as a lifelong braille reader and how her passion for accessible reading shapes the work she does each day. From transcribing and proofreading braille materials to preparing books and digital cartridges for readers across Texas, Inez helps make braille more available to everyone who needs it.  

In this episode, Laura, the Volunteer Coordinator for the Talking Book Studio, chats with TBP Audio Technicians Shane and John to get a feel for what it takes to record books and magazines for patrons!