Public Library Quality Improvement Matrix > Falkirk - Home Sound: accessible audio books

62 Daisy players and 450 Spoken Word CDs were purchased to improve the homebound service. The original proposal was for 40 Daisy players but this was increased because of multiple purchase discounting. The Daisy players are supplied by RNIB and adapted for use by those with visual impairments and decreased motor skills. The players are available on a 6 monthly loan basis, so they can be recalled for checking and PAT testing. A large print version of the catalogue of resources was produced for the user group. Training was carried out and the project was successfully launched in a sheltered housing scheme on 8 Feb 2007.

Statistics on the use of stock will be monitored throughout a 12 month period of use. Users will be surveyed after a two month period and CD issues and requests monitored.
These statistics will provide an evidence base for further stock selection. The stock selection policy has been amended to reflect the change of format of spoken word materials from cassette tapes to CDs.
GBP 1500.00 was also set aside for research and piloting into the use of MP3 hardware and software. A six month pilot of Audio Read and BBC Audio Book downloadable files using Audio Navigator MP3 players has just started.

The launch attracted local press coverage.