The Allen County Public Library Audio Reading Service will launch a redesigned broadcast schedule and refreshed programming lineup on June 1, 2026.
<--more-->
Allen County Public Library news release:
Library’s Audio Reading Service Launches Major Broadcast Overhaul June 1, 2026
Fort Wayne, Indiana (June 1, 2026) – The Allen County Public Library Audio Reading Service (ARS) will launch a redesigned broadcast schedule and refreshed programming lineup on Monday, June 1, marking a most comprehensive service updated based on feedback from an extensive listener survey conducted last summer. The ARS team implemented this feedback, as well as a deep analysis of streaming, podcast, and download data to better understand listener preferences, how audiences access programming, and what types of content they most want to hear.
“As we reviewed the data and listened to our audience, it became clear there were opportunities to strengthen and modernize our programming,” said ARS Manager Monica Hadsall. “This new schedule reflects what our listeners told us they value most, while also introducing fresh content and new ways to connect with information, entertainment, and community.”
The Audio Reading Service provides accessible audio recordings of printed news and information for individuals who have visual, physical, learning, language, neurological or other differences, disabilities, or who have better comprehension through audio access to news and information. Listeners can access ARS programming through HD Radio receivers, antenna TV, online streaming, podcasts, and downloadable recordings. HD Radios are available on loan to listen to this free service.
The revamped lineup includes several new programs covering local journalism, gardening, science, nostalgia, children’s literacy, entertainment, humor, and more. New additions include:
- “Allen County in Depth” — a variety of local independent journalism sources
- “Brain Ticklers” — trivia, mini-mysteries, puzzles, and more
- “Good News” — real news articles that are positive and inspiring
- “The Greenhouse” — gardening magazines
- “Journal Gazette Obituaries in Review” — a compilation of obituary recordings from the week
- “National Geographic” — featuring global cultures, science and nature, wildlife, and more
- “The Onion” — humor/satire articles for adults
- “Our Lives and Times” — nostalgia, historical news, popular culture references of the past
- “Preschool Circle” — early-literacy and learning magazines, picture books with descriptions
- “Short Stories and Poetry” — published classic and contemporary short works
- “Stars and Screens” — film and television reviews and celebrity news
- “Whatzup” — local northeast-Indiana area entertainment guide
Several existing programs have also been updated or expanded. Among the changes:
- “Able Living” becomes “Disability Connection”
- “Black News and Culture” becomes “Black Voices”
- “Consumer Reports” and “Discover Science” expand to hour-long programs
- “LGBT News and Culture” becomes “LGBTQ Outlook”
- “Diabetic News” and “Independent Living” content will be included in “Health Information Today”
In preparation for the launch, ARS has distributed updated informational materials, signage, and broadcast schedules to all library branches. Registered listeners have also received updated schedules and program information in the mail, as well as announcements through email and on-air promotional spots.
Community members interested in learning more or receiving information in accessible formats can contact the Audio Reading Service at 260-421-1376 or by email at AudioReader@acpl.info.
For more information about the Audio Reading Service and updated programming schedules, visit acpl.info/ars.
About the Allen County Public Library
The Allen County Public Library (ACPL) has fostered lifelong learning and discovery in northeast Indiana for more than 135 years. The ACPL consists of fourteen branches throughout Allen County, serving more than one million visitors per year. The ACPL’s collection includes more than 3.9 million items, with a circulation total of 4.6 million items borrowed annually. It also houses The Genealogy Center, the nation’s largest public genealogy research center, and The Rolland Center for Lincoln Research, consisting of more than 30,000 artifacts related to President Abraham Lincoln.
Related Images:
