Machines and Accessories No. 00-04

Date: March 17, 2000

Subject: Disposition of Talking Book Machines (TBMs)


With two-thirds of the direct-mail magazines converted to
cassette and the remaining third slated to be converted in
January 2001, a number of libraries have inquired about
disposition of talking book machines (TBMs) that will no
longer be needed for using current materials.

NLS is developing a process for handling this equipment that
should be in place by early next year.

NLS expects machine-lending agencies to retain a small
number of TBMs to accommodate patrons who do not wish to use
cassettes.  The machines will also be useful in reading the
significant number of existing recorded disc titles.

Libraries should not recall TBMs from patrons, even if all
the magazines they are currently reading are on cassette.
NLS wants neither patrons nor libraries to retain talking
book machines if they do not wish to do so; but it is
recognized that some patrons are comfortable with this
technology and may be reluctant to change.  These patrons
should continue to have access to a TBM as long as they
wish, even if they are not receiving materials on disc on a
regular basis.



For more information contact:

Steve Prine
Head
Network Services Section