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: Tedda Becker received an award for SIRIS Volunteer of the Year, 2009. Tedda has served SIRIS for many years, both as a reader and as an Advisory Board Member.

SIRIS Spring Picnic SIRIS Volunteer readers and Advisory Board members braved stormy weather at the end of April to enjoy a picnic in the backyard.