ElevenLabs and the National Federation of the Blind bring accessible reading to more people
- Written by
- Gabi Leibowitz
- Published
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We partnered with the National Federation of the Blind to make ElevenReader available to blind readers across the U.S. at no cost. The collaboration gives users lifelike narration, full screen reader compatibility, and the freedom to choose how they hear written content.
Why This Matters
Blind readers have long used Braille and screen readers to access written information. ElevenReader adds another way to experience it - through lifelike sound.
With natural voices rich in tone and emotion, ElevenReader gives users a more engaging way to enjoy books, articles, and news. It’s fully compatible with screen readers.
"Access to information has always been at the heart of our movement, and this partnership with ElevenLabs represents the kind of innovation that happens when we prioritize the authentic needs and preferences of blind people,” said Mark Riccobono, President of the National Federation of the Blind. “ElevenReader gives blind readers real options in how they experience content. The ability to choose from natural-sounding voices, personalize the reading experience, and upload our own materials means we are active participants shaping how we consume information."
How to Apply
Members of the National Federation of the Blind can receive a free 12-month ElevenReader Ultra license through the ElevenLabs Impact Program.
- Log in or create a free ElevenReader account: https://elevenreader.io/reader/sign-in
- Once logged in, click Apply for the Impact Program: https://elevenlabs.io/app/impact-program/apply?product=ElevenReader
Together, we’re opening new ways to access information - one voice at a time.
Gabi leads Impact at ElevenLabs, democratizing access to voice AI for the people who need it most. The Impact Program helps people with ALS and other conditions that can cause permanent voice loss preserve or reclaim their voices, while expanding access to audio AI tools for nonprofits, cultural institutions, and educators around the world. Before joining ElevenLabs, Gabi was a voice-specialized speech-language pathologist, using voice science and research to support patients with complex voice disorders. She received her Master's in Speech, Language, and Learning from Northwestern University and completed her clinical fellowship at the University of Miami.
