Texas Talking Book Voices

Season 3 Episode 5: Exploring Magazines with TBP

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.

Season 3 Episode 4: Volunteer Appreciation Month

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.

Season 3 Episode 3: Learning a New Language

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.

Season 3 Episode 2: Picking the Perfect Audiobook

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.

Season 3 Episode 1: People of TBP: Braille Assistant Inez

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.  

Season 2 Episode 12: People of TBP – Day in the Life of an Audio Technician

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!

Season 2 Episode 11: Accessible Genealogy with Archives and Reference Services

Ever wondered how people with print disabilities can explore their family history? In this episode, Engagement Specialist Alicia sits down with Reference Librarian Aly from TSLAC's Archives and Information Services Division (ARIS). We'll explore how ARIS supports genealogy research in Texas, share tips for tracing your roots, and highlight the tools that can help make archival materials more accessible. Whether you're a seasoned genealogist or just curious about your heritage, this episode is for you!

Season 2 Episode 10: The Haunts of Horror

To celebrate the spookiest month of the year, Reader’s Advisory Librarian Laura Jean and Reader Consultant Margaret discuss the haunts of horror. They tackle what makes the genre so scary and some of the creepy creatures and terrifying tropes that keep horror readers hooked.

Season 2 Episode 9: Self-Care Awareness Month

Did you know that September is National Self-Care Awareness Month? Reader’s Advisory Librarian Margaret and Disability Information and Referral Coordinator Dina define self-care and how to practice it in different areas of your life. In addition, they list helpful tools that can make adding self-care to your routine easier.

Season 2 Episode 8: Genre Fiction

Take a journey with Reader’s Advisory Librarian Laura Jean and Reader Consultant Victor through the assortment of genres that make up genre fiction. In this episode, they will discuss the difference between genre fiction and literary fiction and why readers may enjoy genres like horror and romance or fantasy and westerns.