History

Audio-Reader went live on October 11, 1971 after a local Lawrence woman named Petey Cerf was inspired to find a way to bring her daily readings of the local newspaper to her friend in a nursing home to more people. Petey's vision led to a partnership with the University of Kansas who purchased a full-power FM transmitter so KANU could broadcast Audio-Reader on its subcarrier. This partnership with Kansas Public Radio continues today, and Audio-Reader now works with several public radio stations to transmit its signal across Kansas, Missouri, and beyond.

Learn more about Audio-Reader's past, present, and future through the links below.

Plaque reads: CERF-DANN STUDIO In memory of Petey Cerf and William Dann Honoring the legacy of Audio-Reader's foundation and future.

Honoring a Legacy

Petey Cerf and her son, William Dann, built a lasting foundation for Audio-Reader. Learn how their vision continues to shape our future.

Honoring a Legacy

a volunteer sits in front of the mic in the live recording studio

About Audio-Reader

The Audio-Reader Network is a reading and information service for blind, visually impaired, and print disabled individuals in Kansas and western Missouri. Learn more through the link below.

Link to the About Us page

1980s style closed circuit radio

Additional History of Audio-Reader

Learn more about Audio-Reader's founding and our 50+ years of serving the community.

A Short History of Audio-Reader

a wide picture of the Baehr Audio Reader Center showing a large red brick building with a limestone chimney, parking lot, and while entrance door

About The Baehr Audio-Reader Center

The building currently called the Baehr Audio-Reader Center is over 100 years old and has a long and fascinating history. Learn more through the link below.

About the Baehr Audio Reader Center