Larger Map available (92K)

A special radio receiver, pre-tuned to the reading service, is provided to listeners at no cost.

Included in the 24-hour programming is the daily reading of The Des Moines Register, The Fort Dodge Messenger, and other locally published magazines and community publications. These readings include breaking news stories, editorials, sports, obituaries, calendar events and grocery store ads. This programming enables listeners to be informed and involved citizens within their communities. In addition to local programming, IRIS also relays the readings of over 50 newspapers and magazines received via satellite from national networks including InTouch Network of New York City and the Radio Talking Book from St. Paul, Minnesota. Broadcasts include special programming of critical issues of concern to blind and print handicapped and physically challenged individuals.

Established in 1989, IRIS is one of 125 radio reading services for the blind and print handicapped in the United States and is a member of the National Association of Radio Reading Services. As an independent 501 (c)(3) organization, IRIS is funded by grants, foundations, corporations, civic organizations, interested individuals and listeners.

IRIS MISSION: "To enrich and enhance the lives of blind and print handicapped residents of Iowa by providing a free service that brings them timely and topical printed information by radio, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week."

-from "KSUI-91.7 FM Brings Reading Service for Blind to Eastern Iowa"
in the WSUI AM 910, KSUI 91.7 FM, Summer 1999 Program Guide-

In addition to the service provided by FM Radio Stations, Iowa Public Television is using its second audio program channel (SAP) from 8:00 am to 10:30am weekdays to broadcast IRIS in Central Iowa on Channel 11 and in Eastern Iowa on Channel 12. From 8:00 to 9:00 am various sections of the New York Times will be read by a national reading service, with a different section covered each day. From 9:00 to 10:30 am IRIS reads live from various sections of the Des Moines Register.

By broadcasting through Iowa Public Television, the service allows anyone who has a stereo Television or VCR to receive SAP and have access to IRIS services at these times. IPTV's broadcast signal can also be received in areas that currently cannot be reached with the special radio signal.

- from Iowa Public Television's "Behind the Scenes" at http://www.iptv.org/behind/reader.cfm

IRIS may be contacted by writing to:

The Iowa Radio Reading Information Service for the Blind and Print Handicapped, Inc.
100 E. Euclid Ave, Suite 127
Des Moines, IA 50313

Phone: (515)243-6833
Fax: (515)883-1906

Toll Free: 1-877-404-4747

This information updated February 4, 2000.