Imagine not being able to read the daily newspaper or your favorite magazine. Let SIRIS give you back what you've been missing The Southern Illinois Radio Information Service, SIRIS, is a community service of WSIU Public Broadcasting which provides a reading and information service for individuals who are blind, visually impaired and print-disabled. Any person in the WSIU-FM (91.9) or WVSI-FM (88.9) listening area whose eyesight or physical condition makes it impossible to read a newspaper or book qualifies to receive the SIRIS broadcast. How does it work? SIRIS programming is broadcast on a subcarrier frequency of the WSIU-FM and WVSI-FM main signal. The broadcast can only be heard on a special radio receiver that is pre-tuned to the SIRIS broadcast. These receivers are provided at no cost to qualified listeners in our region. SIRIS is funded in part by WSIU Public Radio , Southern Illinois University Carbondale, United Way of Southern Illinois, and the Illinois State Library and from donations from supporters in our region. How do I get more information? You can request an application by contacting the SIRIS office at 618-453-2808, or download the application here. After receiving your application, a radio will be shipped to you. The radio will be loaned to you as long as you desire, and can be renewed each year. Volunteer Readers Volunteers play an important role in providing this valuable community service. Why not consider becoming a SIRIS volunteer? If you have an understandable voice and a love of reading and can spend a half-hour weekly reading a local newspaper, we'd love to have your help. Volunteers are required to schedule an orientation and short audition with our staff. The short audition includes reading a newspaper article. To become a SIRIS Volunteer Reader contact our office at 618-453-2808. Photo: Neil Claussen, SIRIS Volunteer Reader of the Year recipient for 2007-2008.

SIRIS Holiday Open House The SIRIS Advisory Board recently hosted the annual Holiday Open House and potluck at SIRIS on Friday, Dec. 5th. A record turn-out of volunteers attended this year's luncheon. The open house provides an opportunity for board members to show their appreciation to the volunteers for their hours of service, and volunteers have the opportunity to meet others who read at various times throughout the weekly schedule.