The National Federation of the Blind announces the availability
of Newsline, an electronic publication of major daily newspapers, specifically
tailored for blind and visually-impaired readers. With 69 regional "hubs"
in 33 states, Newsline electronically "reads" all of each day's edition,
which is immediately made available via modem to the local distribution centers.
Users telephone the nearest local center (or place a long?distance call to the
National Center for the Blind) and listen to the articles they choose, read
to them in a synthesized voice. The reader is free to jump between articles,
sections, and publications, and to pick the speed of reading to suit their needs.
There is no subscription fee or other charge to access the system (although
long-distance phone charges may apply, if the nearest local service center is
not in your vicinity).
Newsline is not the Internet, and no computer is necessary to use it. The system
is easy to learn, and easy to access. Service is available to any person at
least legally blind, and again, there is no charge.
USA Today, The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times, The
Toronto Globe and Mail, The Wall Street Journal, and the Chicago Tribune already
participate. More publications, including local papers, are expected to join
shortly. As the system expands, even more blind individuals will have rapid
and comprehensive access to daily print news media, a substantial improvement
over "live reader" services. Our goal is to make the service available
to every blind person in the country, and soon.
The NFB is looking for individuals and organizations willing to sponsor and
maintain more new local distribution centers, in areas not yet served. For further
information, about participating or sponsorship, contact Newsline Network, National
Federation of the Blind, 1800 Johnson Street, Baltimore, MD 21230; telephone:
(410) 659-9314.
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