This morning, three members of the Red Carpet/Talking Books staff were pleased to present Mr. Norbert Hoffman of Centralia, Kansas with the first official digital Talking Book player issued to a northeast Kansas listener. By law, preference in lending of Library of Congress books and equipment is given to honorably discharged veterans.

With only a few minutes’ instruction, Mr. Hoffman began listening to his first digital book, “Westerns of the 40's: Classics from the Great Pulps”.  

Weighing two pounds, the new digital Talking-Book machines are smaller and lighter than current analog cassette players. The tactile buttons, color-coded and shaped to facilitate user-ease, are just one feature that will enhance reading pleasure. A cutting-edge battery will allow over thirty hours of listening between charges. The system’s improved navigation capabilities will offer patrons greater control over the reading process. With no moving parts, the digital machine is significantly more durable than the cassette player, resulting in a longer lifespan. Built to endure rough handling through the mail system, even three-foot drops, the player features easy-to-clean surfaces so is easy to maintain.

Book cartridges are designed to be easily inserted into the player, especially for readers with reduced dexterity. They have beveled edges as well as a large finger hole in the corner which will make it easier to grip and load into the player. Its wedge design allows it to be inserted into the player in only one direction. The cartridge has many other benefits that will enhance patrons' reading experience. It will deliver crisper, clearer audio quality. One cartridge will hold most titles, which adds extra convenience to the reading experience. The cartridge also plays through on one side; there's no need to flip the cartridge like one would with a cassette tape. Its compact design also offers users greater portability. The cartridge is about the size of a credit card.

     Contact  Northeast Kansas Talking Books fo r m   ore information on the digital transition and any service-related questions.

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