Our Impact in 2021
Click below for an audio version of our Annual Report:
A Team Effort
Fighting Isolation
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Audio-Reader has proven to be an ever more vital service, connecting individuals with disabilities to news and information from their communities.
Adapting to Needs
We have tackled the challenges of the past 2 years to find new ways to serve our constituents and achieve our mission, as well as staying connected to our circle of volunteers and supporters.
A Certain Future
Audio-Reader has weathered financial changes of the past several years to emerge stronger than ever, certain in our ability to sustain ourselves and our ever-important mission.
Another different year
14,821 files uploaded by volunteer readers since the transition to remote operations
While the Audio-Reader studios re-opened in Fall 2021, we still operate a hybrid work model, with many volunteers sending files remotely, meeting virtually, and providing service over the telephone.
Audio-Reader on Amazon Alexa
16,947 Amazon Alexa Sessions | 1,882 Unique customers
Our fastest-growing means of listening, this number equates to a 276% increase in listening sessions on our Amazon Alexa skill, compared to 2020.
Thanks to the accessibility and affordability of smart speakers, our Alexa skill had an average of 46 sessions per day in 2021.
Accessing Services by Telephone
10,698 calls to our Lions Telephone Reader Service in 2021
We offer a wide variety of content through our Lions Telephone Reader service, and Audio-Reader users spent more than 225,000 minutes listening to accessible news, information, and entertainment, on demand over the telephone.
A Resource for Disability
19,672 Visits to the Audio-Reader website
reader.ku.edu is a place to access our services, stream accessible audio information and find out about events, programs and additional resources.
A Familiar Voice
71 closed circuit radios distributed to new listeners
Distributed at no cost to users, Audio-Reader's original FM sub-carrier broadcast signal reaches thousands of listeners in their homes and residences.
A Major Milestone!
October 11th, 2021 marked 50 years of the Audio-Reader service!
We are honored to continue to serve blind, visually-impaired and print-disabled individuals across Kansas, Missouri and beyond.
Some More 2021 Highlights
- Our 24/7 radio broadcast and online stream
- The Lions Telephone Reader offers on-demand 24/7 info
- Special Requests service makes print materials accessible
- Online audio sales created fundraising opportunities
- Numerous events, celebrations and proclamations for our 50th year
- Safe return to in-studio operations for volunteers & staff