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Welcome to Radio Talking Book Service

Radio Talking Book Service (RTBS) serves Nebraska and southwest Iowa with a mission to provide human-voiced information choices to individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or have physical disabilities which prevent them from reading.  We are in our 49th year of providing a vital connection for these individuals with the printed word through two 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 provides human-voiced information choices to individuals who have disabilities that prevent them from reading.  

  • People Helped

    11,908

  • 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

As we dive into the season of giving this month, let’s explore how the very action of giving can lead to a more altruistic life, improve our mood and even makes us happy.

Singing with others has numerous health benefits for your body and mind. Here are a few ways to be healthier and happier with music in your life.

Gratitude is about more than taking a second to say “Thanks.” Gratitude shows true appreciation. This Thanksgiving, we have some ideas for how you can give gratitude.

On November 25th, support your local businesses and discover hidden gems in your town.

  • 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!