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Welcome to Radio Talking Book Service

Radio Talking Book Service (RTBS) serves Nebraska and southwest Iowa with a mission to connect individuals who are blind, low vision, or print impaired to news, information, arts, and culture through the human voice and technology. We are in our 50th year of providing a vital connection for these individuals with the printed word through three programs: Radio Talking Book Network, a statewide radio reading service; Audio Description, a live connection to arts and culture; and Listening Link, an educational reading program. 

The Radio Talking Book Network (RTBN), founded in 1974, is Nebraska’s audio companion and only radio reading service.  RTBN provides our statewide audience with equal access to local, current information necessary to lead productive, self-directed lives and remain engaged in their communities.  To do this, RTBN uses over 80 volunteer readers, whose diverse voices bring the printed word to life with the reading of 21 regional newspapers, grocery and department store ads weekly, information from over 70 magazines, live interviews on our Community Conversations, a Veterans Hour, and much more. 

Audio Description ensures access to live community events, including theater, parades, art exhibits, and more.  A trained describer provides the visual details of these events which can include costumes, sets, details of a float, the antics of a mascot, and more!

The Listening Link program assists blind, visually impaired, and learning disabled students in eliminating educational barriers they face.  Founded in 1992, Listening Link works with area schools and colleges, providing human-voiced recordings of textbooks and other course material required for degree completion and academic success. 

Mission

Radio Talking Book Service connects individuals who are blind, low vision, or print impaired to news, information, arts, and culture through the human voice and technology.

  • People Helped

    11,967

  • Volunteer Hours

    100+/week!

We have the power to improve lives. Generosity has the ability to unite and heal our community in good times and bad. Together, we can bring the printed word to life!

News & Blog

A mentorship program has more in store than just for the mentee. If you’re not sure whether mentoring is right for you, take a look at these eight ways becoming a mentor can benefit you.

What’s the best way to show thankfulness? By giving back to others. This Thanksgiving, remember the reason for the season by showing thanks through giving.

Books are a valuable source of information, creativity and empathy. If you’re not a book lover now, you will be soon. Here’s how reading makes you a better person.

This holiday season, try incorporating some of these healthy treats into your life to balance out the rich holiday feasts. Check out these top eight power foods you need to take advantage of.

  • Carol, Omaha Listener
    Carol, Omaha Listener

    I’ve had to give up the paper after 50 years. I’m so excited to listen to the newspaper with my radio!