RNIB Talking Books Alexa skill
If you enjoy RNIB Talking Books, you’ll now be able to access them in an even easier way.
RNIB Talking Books are now available through Alexa-enabled devices, such as Amazon smart speakers using an Alexa skill, as well as through our usual library services.
Once you start accessing Talking Books through an Alexa skill, you'll be able to get reading straight away as your books will be with you instantly. As you'll be able to open any of the books on our Online Library through simple voice commands, you can make immediate changes to your reading lists when you want to, without having to wait.
One of our customers, Julian Smith, said:
I have been using the skill every day for the last two weeks. I've tried all the commands several times and everything works smoothly! Well done and thank you to everyone involved in this exciting skill.
What is a skill and how does the RNIB Talking Books Alexa skill work?
Alexa skills are voice-activated apps that add more features to an Alexa-enabled device, such as an Amazon Echo. The skill allows you to access specific functions, in this case, over 34,000 RNIB Talking Books from the RNIB Library. You can search and open any of our books in the library by simply saying “Alexa, open RNIB Talking Books”.
What do I need to do to get started?
You'll need to be a registered RNIB Library member and have access to an Amazon account. You'll also need to have the Alexa app downloaded to your phone or tablet or have an Alexa-enabled device, such as a smart speaker. Download our factsheet for more information on how to get started.
What if I don’t have an Alexa-enabled device?
If you're a current Library customer you can still access all of our books in the usual ways – online, CD, USB and braille (on request). If you're not a current library member, then contact our helpline on 0303 123 9999 or register online at RNIB Library.
Our Technology for Life team has put together a short film to demonstrate the new RNIB Talking Books skill:
Frequently Asked Questions
To find out more about this service, download and read our FAQs or visit our Tech for Life section for more details on how to get started with the Talking Book Alexa skill.
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