To the editor:

We started volunteering at Audio-Reader in 2006. Since that time we have met and/or heard from many users of this important reading service for the visually impaired from all across the state of Kansas and even nearby parts of Missouri. The myriad ways in which individuals use this service is staggering. It was, therefore, with great disappointment that we learned of the decision by KU officials to eliminate (over a three-year period) funding for this vital program. This is a stunningly poor decision from a public relations perspective.

Audio-Reader reaches almost every community across the entire state. If you have difficulties of any sort with the printed word, Audio-Reader is there to help. It does not matter who you are. If you live in urban or rural parts of Kansas, regardless of your political affiliation, race, creed, religion, sexual identity or economic status; if you need help with the printed word, you get it through KU’s Audio-Reader program at no cost. Twenty-four hours a day. Every day. What other KU program has that kind of outreach?

Just for kicks, check out reader@ku.edu; click on the Services tab and then the List of Towns Covered. It will blow you away.

Charles and Donna Decedue,

Lawrence