Screen-Free Audio Library Gives Lander Families Educational Alternatives

In Lander, families increasingly recognize the harm that excessive screen time causes developing brains, but parents struggle to find affordable alternatives for educational audio content. While the public library offers audiobook apps, these still require screen use, and purchasing screen-free devices plus audiobook collections can be cost-prohibitive. When the Learning Resources Library director heard repeated requests from families for screen-free options, she reached out to LOR with a plan to create a lending program featuring multiple types of audio players and extensive audiobook collections. The program will allow families to borrow devices like Yoto, Take Along Storyteller, and Tonies players—along with audiobook cards that insert into each device—giving children access to stories, songs, and educational games without screens. This approach also helps families test different devices before making their own purchase decisions, rather than ordering something online and hoping it works. LOR’s funding will help purchase audio players, protective cases, and a starter audiobook collection, establishing a program the library can continue expanding to meet community demand.