STORY: Digital technology facilitates reading for visually impaired at library in China's Shanxi
SHOOTING TIME: Nov. 27, 2023
DATELINE: Dec. 20, 2023
LENGTH: 00:01:25
LOCATION: TAIYUAN, China
CATEGORY: SOCIETY

SHOTLIST:
1. various of the library
2. SOUNDBITE 1 (Chinese): REN XIANGSHU, Staff member, Shanxi Library
3. SOUNDBITE 2 (Chinese): YANG XIA, Visitor at the library
4. SOUNDBITE 3 (Chinese): REN XIANGSHU, Staff member, Shanxi Library
5. various of books

STORYLINE:

Shanxi Library in north China has employed digital technology to facilitate reading for visually impaired people.

The braille reading area in the library, covering about 150 square meters, is equipped with devices like braille displays, magnifiers, and blind-friendly computers. 

SOUNDBITE 1 (Chinese): REN XIANGSHU, Staff member, Shanxi Library
"In 2018, we launched an initiative to promote digital reading for the visually impaired. We provided extensive training on intelligent audiobook players. Our services have been well-received, with high rates of usage and renewal of intelligent audiobook players. We offer free mailing services, and doorstep book delivery, allowing them to enjoy digital resources at home."

SOUNDBITE 2 (Chinese): YANG XIA, Visitor at the library
"The audiobook device contains an extensive collection of audio resources and digital content. It's a very useful reading companion for visually impaired readers."

The braille reading area also features barrier-free films. 

SOUNDBITE 3 (Chinese): REN XIANGSHU, Staff member, Shanxi Library
"People come here not only for reading, but also for socializing. Today, about five or six people gathered here for a small tea party." 

The library houses some 5,600 braille books, over 600 audiobooks, and more than 800 barrier-free films.

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Taiyuan, China.
(XHTV)