Reading for the blind and print-disabled
Audio-Reader, a closed circuit radio service for anyone who has difficulty reading standard
printed material, airs more than 160 hours weekly of printed matter and special information to
thousands of listeners throughout Kansas and western Missouri.
Lions Telephone Reader is a telephone/computer system into which 10 to 15 hours of the
Kansas City Star and TV Guide are recorded each day.
This unique programming is made
possible by volunteer readers who record or broadcast the various newspapers, magazines and
books offered through Audio-Reader.
Audio-Reader volunteers include high school and college students, teachers, doctors,
homemakers, retirees, and many others. They have a diversity of backgrounds and interests, but
all share a common desire to help provide current information to those who can't read daily
newspapers, magazines and best-selling books.
All Audio-Reader original programming is recorded in our studios in Lawrence, or (as in the case
of most newspaper readings) broadcast live. Most volunteers live in the Lawrence area, but many
commute from the Kansas City and Topeka areas.
Would you like to become an Audio-Reader volunteer? The following information will assist you
in making that decision.
What are the qualifications for volunteering?
Before you are eligible to become a volunteer broadcaster for Audio-Reader, you must take and
pass our audition for reading aloud. The audition includes a 100-word pronunciation test and
several brief excerpts of reading from newspapers and books. The reading test, which takes about
15 minutes, is a taped audition done in one of our recording studios.
How can I prepare for the audition?
The audition is a "cold" reading, so good sight-reading skills are essential. Although there is little
you can do to prepare for the audition, you might find it helpful to consider the following list of
characteristics by which your test will be evaluated:
Good pronunciation skills are essential. Words must be pronounced correctly, and your diction
must be clear, distinct, and understandable. Here are a few samples that are similar to words
found in the audition:
inveterate - derisive - facade - semitic - hierarchy - arduous - tenuous - choreography -
perpetrated - promiscuity - La Jolla CA
Your reading should...
- flow smoothly, free from objectionable disturbances and frequent hesitations.
- be appropriate to the type of material being presented. It should be expressive, not exaggerated;
relaxed, not stilted.
- exhibit a pace which is easy to follow and appropriate to the material being read.
- bring the material to life. It should make the listener want to hear more.
Your audition will be evaluated shortly after you take the test; you will be notified regarding the
results as soon as possible. If you do not pass the audition on your first attempt you may re-take
the test at a later date.
What will I read for Audio-Reader?
Assignment of reading material is determined by the volunteer (you) and the Coordinator of
Volunteers. Decisions are based on the volunteer's interests, reading skills and schedule, and by
the needs of the program. You will not be asked to read anything that is personally offensive to
you. Most reading material is furnished by Audio-Reader.
Make Audio-Reader your project. It's rewarding and fruitful, the need is great, and there is much
to do.
To find out more about volunteering for Audio-Reader, or to schedule an audition, call or email
Jennifer Nigro, our Coordinator of Volunteers:
Copyright © 2013 by the University of Kansas: Text Only