Reader development
Reader development has brought a new lease of life to people’s reading, encouraging to try new writers and genres and giving them the opportunity to share their reading experiences with others. Libraries will be well aware of general reader development initiatives. Here are some examples of reader development that is inclusive for sight impaired people. Please tell us about any of your programmes and projects that we can add to the list.
Reading groups
Many library services organise or support reading groups. Some have groups that are specifically aimed at sight impaired people, using enlarged print and/or audio and/or braille. Some sight impaired people are keen to join general reading groups and this is possible if the group chooses titles that are available in an appropriate alternative format. these may be available in the library’s own collections or obtainable from another source.
Getting hold of books for reading groups
The RNIB Talking Books service has a great list of titles that are quickly sent by post. Any number of members of the group can have the same title at the same time if they are members of Talking Books.
Calibre can support reading groups if they are exclusively for people with sight problems or if some of the members are visually impaired. They can supply multiple copies at the same time in either cassette of MP3 audio format. Calibre also supports individuals who may be the only person in the group who needs the title in audio format.
Telephone Book Clubs
The RNIB Telephone Book Clubs are made up of small groups of people getting together over the phone for a chat about all kinds of books and reading in general. All from the comfort of their homes!
- The Book Clubs run in six monthly cycles.
- They take place once a month.
- There are no more than eight people per group so you will all get the chance to contribute regularly to the discussions.
- It costs £12 for six sessions - that’s just £2 per session!
- RNIB rings you so there are no other costs involved.
- The groups are facilitated by friendly and highly trained volunteers.
- Date: May 2009