IN.gov - Skip Navigation

Note: This message is displayed if (1) your browser is not standards-compliant or (2) you have you disabled CSS. Read our Policies for more information.


Subscribe for e-mail updates
Print This Page Rate This Page Suggest a Link E-mail This Page HELP Find a Person Find an Agency

Playback Equipment

The Machine Lending Section of the Indiana Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped is responsible for distributing, maintaining, and keeping up to date records on all playback equipment necessary to read the recorded materials provided by the Talking Book and Braille Library and the Subregional Libraries. This equipment may be borrowed on extended loan for as long as the borrower is using the equipment to read materials provided by the Indiana Talking Books Program. In the event that a machine ceases to function properly or needs repair, it should be returned to the library at:

Talking Book and Braille Library
140 North Senate Avenue 
Indianapolis, IN  46204-2296

with a note enclosed stating the problem and requesting a replacement. Equipment is shipped to patrons in boxes with a mailing card that can be turned over to return it to the library. If the original box is no longer available, any box may be used writing "Free Matter for the Blind and Handicapped" where postage normally is placed on the upper right hand corner of the container. Another machine will be provided by the library. Under no circumstances should a borrower attempt to repair the playback equipment or accessories.

Equipment available for extended loan includes:

1. Standard Cassette Player

This cassette player permits readers to control the playback speed of cassette books, review or fast forward. It has a built-in battery which allows up to six hours of operation without being plugged into a standard electrical outlet to recharge it.  It is a player only--it does not record. Readers can play both commercial and talking-book cassettes.

2. Easy Cassette Player

This cassette player is designed for people who want few controls and more automatic operation. It plays through all four sides of a talking-book without removing the cassette and turning it over. Readers may stop the tape at any time and resume where they left off but if the tape is removed it rewinds automatically to the beginning when reinserted. It only plays talking-book tapes.

3. Accessories include:

  • Headphones which are available only when needed to use the talking-books without disturbing others.
  • Amplifier designed for hearing impaired persons only and requires a doctor's approval for issue.
  • Extension Levers which aid readers who do not have sufficient manual dexterity to press the buttons on cassette players.