Western Counties Regional Library is adding VOX books to its collection. The books fill a need for more children’s read-along books.
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. No need for computers, tablets, or CDs. Children push a button to listen and read.
The new addition to library shelves brings updated technology to the library. 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,” she says. “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.
The books will be available in the children’s sections at all 10 library branches by the beginning of March.
