What We Do
Radio Talking Book Service (RTBS) is a nonprofit radio station that broadcasts print information statewide via radio signal and the internet. RTBS volunteers read newspapers and magazines aloud and their diverse voices are broadcast to blind, low vision, or print impaired listeners. Eligible listeners are provided radios at no cost to access our programming or are able to access it on home computers, tablets, smartphones, or smart speakers. We are in our 47th year of ensuring equal access to print media through two programs: Radio Talking Book Network, a statewide radio reading service; and Listening Link, an educational reading program.
Our volunteers read the Omaha World Herald and Lincoln Journal Star daily, weekly grocery and department store ads, ten regional newspapers, and we use over 70 magazines to provide additional programming. RTBS informs, entertains, and brings the printed word to life for our listeners, empowering them to remain active and engaged in their community. With resilient and committed volunteers as well as access to necessary technology, RTBS rose to the challenges posed by the pandemic that have affected us all the past year. In March 2020, RTBS transformed our cadre of volunteers into remote readers with over 60 volunteers providing the vital, local programming our listeners rely on now more than ever. We were able to maintain our core programming with little alteration. Additionally, we began producing programming to directly address pandemic needs. In June 2021, RTBS staff began implementing a reopening plan for the studios and offices. We are using a hybrid of in-studio and remote readers to bring the printed word to life for our listeners for the remainder of 2021.
