The Western Counties Regional Library has added VOX books to its children’s section at all 10 of its branches in southwestern Nova Scotia.
Lydia Hunsberger (above), manager of collections and digital services, holds two VOX books. The audiobooks that live in print books are now available to borrow at all 10 branches of Western Counties Regional Library.
VOX books are audiobooks that live in print books. The attached VOX Reader transforms an ordinary print book into an all-in-one read-along. There is no need for computers, tablets, or CDs. Children push a button to listen and read.
This new addition to the library shelves brings updated technology to the library and fills a need for more children’s read-along books. The library had children’s books that came with a CD to provide a read-along audio format.
“Because people are less likely to have a CD player, the library needed a way to update that collection,” says Lydia Hunsberger, manager of collections and digital services.
She says the books help young readers learn to read and pronounce new words. The books also give the young reader independence because an adult doesn’t have to be present.
“Even if kids can’t read the words, listening to a book has similar benefits and still helps develop literacy skills,” she says. “Seeing the text can help you recognize those words. You’re hearing it. You’re seeing it.”
The books vary in content with some featuring well-known children’s stories and authors. Others are geared towards learning words and their sounds.
“It can be a good learning tool,” Hunsberger says.
The built-in player has easy-to-use buttons and headphone jacks.
“It makes them good for road trips,” she says.
The books have a battery life of 100 hours and use a micro-USB cord to charge.
Original article found here.
