Vol. 39, No. 1
Summer 2009
Important Update: The Digital Conversion of the Library’s Recording Studio
Time marches on and we, the Arizona Friends of Talking Books (AZFTB), continue to honor our pledge of raising the money necessary for your new, and much improved, Talking Book Library’s digital recording studio. As you know, this project has been ongoing for several years and continues to evolve and grow. Recently, we were able to replace the sound booths, chairs and headphones for the studio!
The next phase of the conversion to digital audio books will require purchasing digital cartridges to replace the cassettes, mailing containers for the cartridges, a Braille printer to produce labels, and cartridge duplicators. The cartridges alone will likely cost around $20,000!
The project wouldn’t have gotten this far without individuals like you who have given very, very generous and never-ending donations. However, in these tough economic times, we need your help more than ever. Unfortunately, the state budget crisis means there will be less and less funds available for our relatively small state library. Yet, there is nothing SMALL about this very BIG and important project.
We all know how important talking books are to the library’s many patrons. They’re not only a source of entertainment, but also provide education and a much needed connection to the outside world.
Of course, we will accept donations of any size or amount. Also, we’re continuing to accept donations for the “Arizona Talking Book Friend for Life” contribution plaque that is now on display at the Library. This plaque honors individuals, and civic or church groups who fall within four tiers of giving: 1) “Manuscript” – ($250+), 2) “Volume” – ($500+), 3) “Tome” – ($1,000+), and 4) “Book” – ($2,000+). Of course, anonymity will be honored by request. Send donations to Arizona Friends of Talking Books, 1030 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix AZ 85008.
Finally, you may wonder if there are other ways to contribute. The AZFTB is still a relatively small group and we’re always looking for quality individuals to add to our board.
If you’re interested in joining the AZFTB, or if you simply want to make a donation, please feel free to contact the Talking Book Library at (602) 255-5578, or 1(800) 255-5578.
Thanks again for all your support over the years. We will continue to work hard assisting the Talking Book Library and the needs of its patrons. Likewise, I am very proud to say “we are your Arizona Friends of Talking Books”.
Warmest regards,
Dr. David T. Rockwell
Treasurer, Arizona Friends of Talking Books