Posted on June 29, 2020 at 3:13 PM by Jeff Hixon
The State Library’s databases are used for researching topics whose articles are suitable for all age ranges and reading levels, but did you know some of our databases have a "listen" feature for the articles too? This listen feature is great resource for persons with disabilities, and young readers who may need some extra help.
The databases that have the listen feature include Ebsco and Britannica. For example, the listen feature in Britannica is available by clicking on the icon in the upper right corner which looks like a speaker with sound waves. This will begin reading the article. There is a way to pause it, and skip forwards or backwards. One other interesting note is that the listen feature highlights the sentence it is on too.
For Ebsco databases, the listen feature is also within whatever article that is searched for and can be found at the beginning of the actual full-text article. The listener can change the type of accent, and can also change the settings of the reading speed and highlighting options. Similar to Britannica, the listen feature in the Ebsco databases can highlight the sentence it is on, as well as each word in that sentence.
Also, both of these databases also have translating features, which can be really helpful for ESL students. In Britannica, the translation feature is just to the left of the read/listen function, with an icon resembling a globe. In the Ebsco databases, the translate feature is right about the title, or can be found by using the Translate Tool link in the right column.
To find these and other databases available to Kansan residents, click on http://kslib.info/221/Online-Databases. The links on this page work by verifying your Kansas internet provider address. If you cannot use these links, you will need to log in with your Kansas Library Card. Any questions can be directed to Online Services and Programming at the State Library. Their phone number is 800-432-3919, and support email is audiobooks@library.ks.gov.
State Library of Kansas Reference
Reference: 785-296-2149
Legislative Hotline: 1-800-432-3919
E-mail: infodesk@ks.gov