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    How Tape Aids is Transforming Reading for the Visually Impaired and Beyond at Margate Retirement Village

    There’s something magical about rediscovering the joy of reading, and Tape Aids is doing just that, not only for the residents of Margate Retirement Village but for thousands across South Africa.

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    Tape Aids is a registered non-profit organisation committed to offering audio library and book production services for individuals with reading difficulties. For the past 60 years, the organisation has been recording and producing educational and recreational “Talking Books” and audio magazines in nine official South African languages. 

    This has been made possible with the support of over 500 volunteer narrators and proof-readers at their studios and service centres across the country. The main circulation library processes more than 5,000 audio books per day, and members can also download audio books from the website.

    This incredible service is breaking barriers, offering a lifeline to anyone who thought reading was out of reach, and paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

    At the recent event, we got to learn how Tape Aids delivers books directly to users via email or USB sticks for those who prefer that. Forget struggling with heavy, cumbersome physical copies, this system is as simple as plug, play, and immerse yourself in a world of stories and knowledge.

    The best part? Tape Aids boasts an intuitive navigation system designed specifically for visually impaired users. Imagine being able to browse, select, and download books independently, using straightforward commands. It’s not just convenient – it’s empowering.

    But the magic of Tape Aids doesn’t stop there. Behind the scenes, an army of dedicated volunteers works tirelessly to record and proofread every book, keeping the collection fresh and ever-growing. Thanks to special licensing, every book remains part of Tape Aids’ extensive library, ensuring they’re always accessible to those who need them. Some readers have even gone on to become published authors, adding their own stories to this inspiring collection.

    And it’s not just about pleasure reading, Tape Aids is making a huge difference in education too. Schools for the blind and institutions supporting learners with disabilities use the service to transform textbooks, exam papers, and study materials into accessible audio formats. This means students of all ages can keep up with their classmates, succeed academically, and even develop better literacy skills by combining text and audio.

    Science backs it up, listening to books activates the brain in ways that improve comprehension and memory. 

    Tape Aids is leveraging this for everyone, whether it’s a child with ADHD, an adult reconnecting with books, or seniors keeping their minds sharp.

    At Margate Retirement Village, residents have found more than just books, they’ve found connection, inspiration, and the sheer joy of diving into a good story once again. Beyond the village, Tape Aids is changing lives nationwide, converting exam papers and study materials into all 11 official languages and ensuring no one is left behind.

    By adhering to the Marrakesh Treaty, Tape Aids ensures its resources meet global accessibility standards. 

    It’s not just about compliance, it’s about inspiring a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can share in the magic of reading.

    Whether you want to rediscover reading or support someone you know, Tape Aids is ready to help. Because reading isn’t just for some of us, it’s for all of us.

    If you’re ready to experience this transformation, contact Margate Retirement Village and see how Tape Aids can make a difference.

    Address: 1 North Dr, Margate, 4275
    Phone: 039 312 5000
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