
The DSO only provides audio format of complete books as written. The DSO does not accept requests for individually tailored recordings. Audio tapes are in specialized format (4 track Talking Books speed). Students can listen to tapes at the DSO office (by appointment) or at the D.H. Hill Library's Assistive Technologies Center. If preferred, students may purchase 4 track Talking Books speed players or recorders from a variety of vendors, including American Printing House for the Blind, LS&S Group (1-800-468-4789), Independent Living Aids Inc., and Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic. The DSO will not process any requests for alternate format materials prior to registration in the course. The DSO does not provide alternate format materials for personal use or study (Section 504, 104.44(d)(2)). If the DSO is providing audio format materials we need advanced notice in order for you to have the material on time. Responsibilities are as follows:
Instructor
- Provide textbook title(s), syllabus, and any other course materials to the student well in advance of the semester so that an audio format version can be obtained or produced on time.
- Adhere to ordering guidelines and deadlines set forth by the bookstore for textbooks.
- Inform the student of any title, edition, or syllabus changes as soon as possible.
- Submit tests and handouts for conversion to audio format to the DSO as soon as possible but with no less than two weeks notice.
Student
- Obtain the books, copies of syllabi, and course materials well in advance of the start of the semester.
- Review materials and obtain additional information from instructor as needed prior to making your request.
- Textbooks and other Course Materials over 100 Pages
- Eligible students can order audio format textbooks in several ways. The campus bookstore can order audio format from Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic (RFBD). Contact Richard Hayes, Director, or RFBD directly at 1-800-211-4792, or on the web.
- Please note you must be a member of RFBD in order to receive audio format directly from them. You must also be eligible for this accommodation to receive audio format through the bookstore. Take a copy of your DSO audio format eligibility email to Richard Hayes.
- If books are not available through RFBD, students should contact the National Library Service, publishers, audio book dealers, etc., and order the books that have already been taped.
- For books not available elsewhere, students should submit Request for Alternate Format forms, books, course packs, lab manuals, dissertations and other course materials (over 100 pages) one month prior to the due date to the DSO Program Assistant.
- The DSO will accept but cannot promise completed text books and other course materials over 100 pages by the due date with less than one month notice as materials that are particularly difficult to tape may take longer.
- If the bookstore does not have the book available for purchase, check with NC State Libraries to borrow the book until you are able to purchase a copy.
- Pick up your audio format when it is ready from the DSO front desk and sign for receipt.
- Return all audio format by the end of the semester.
- Other course materials 100 Pages or Less
- Submit Request for Alternate Format form to the DSO Program Assistant.
- Provide articles or course materials to the DSO two weeks prior to the due date.
- Materials that are particularly difficult to convert may take longer.
- The DSO will accept but cannot guarantee completed materials by the due date with less notice.
- Pick up your audio format when it is ready from the DSO front desk and sign for the receipt.
- Report any problems to the DSO service provider immediately.
- Return all audio format by the end of the semester.
DSO
- Convert textbooks and course materials that are not already in an audio format.
- Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and pay alternate format staff as needed.
- Request assistance from instructor to recruit qualified readers who can explain visual details when necessary.
See also: How to Receive Alternate Format