History in the Making in Talking Books Dept.

All JPL staff is not aware of changes in one of our critical departments, Talking Books, so this update and encouragement for JPL staff to talk up TB services to our customers.

Jerry Reynolds, Librarian Senior, Talking Books (TB), pictured left, reports that TB’s conversion to digital service is progressing well. Braille and Audio Reading Downloads (BARD) are being added daily. JPL’s customers have enjoyed this upgrade over the last few months and appreciate features of the digital TB machine with few reported problems. Still there are customers who have not received digital Talking Books and via TB’s newsletter, "The Insight", they are being encouraged to contact TB for this service. (Production of new books on recorded cassette ceased late last year, and all new titles are now only available on digital cartridge or BARD download.)

Customers can still receive TB on cassette during the digital transition period because the majority of the collection is only available on cassette. Customers can’t buy or keep existing TB on cassette because they are the property of the Library of Congress and need to be returned when customers are finished with them.

In the past few months TB services have been extended to institutions such as nursing homes, hospitals, schools and others that request this service. If not currently registered, the individual responsible for TB service at the institution can call JPL’s Talking Book Department, 630-1999, to request TB service.

Spread the word when you get the chance. You may just help someone live a fuller, richer life.