Although I can’t see print on a page, I
still consider myself an avid reader. The books that I read come in audio
format. At first it was tricky to get used to the idea of reading as a
listening skill instead of a seeing skill, but it is certainly a process that
has grown on me. I like the fact that I can “read” while I am doing other
things. Judging by the number of audio books that are now available commercially,
I know that people with sight are also using this form of reading. For
instance, my sister, Jill, who is fully sighted, likes to listen to audio books
in her car.
When I first used to listen to read, the
CNIB Library used cassette tapes. Before this, there was a time when books were
recorded onto 78 LP records. The technology has made considerable advances
since then. Now I listen to books in DAISY format that are recorded on a single
CD. If I wanted to, I could also download books from my computer. While I confess
that I don’t understand the technical process, I am more than pleased with the
results.
These days I use a Victor Reader Stream.
This handy device is produced by Humanware. I like the logo of this company, See
Things. Differently., and I both like and use some of their products.
The Victor Stream is a recording and play
back device and comes in two parts. There is a small black box, or the
hardware, and a smaller yet device, which is the player. This latter fits
easily in the palm of my hand or even in my pocket. I like that I can store
several books at once. This is especially useful when I am travelling. The
Stream is also a personal recorder. I can use it to record and play back names,
numbers, addresses, lists and other information in my own voice. The surface of the Stream has raised tactile
buttons with audio feedback so that the device can be used easily by those of
us who are print disabled.
If you want to check out the Victor Reader
Stream for price and other features, you can do so at:
This week I took my Victor Reader Stream to
show it to my support group. The picture below shows me demonstrating it to one
of the members.
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