Talking books
A talking book is a recorded narrated version of a published book, and is intended for those with print disabilities. MTM makes talking books for children and adults with different needs.
MTM’s products include several different types of talking books. We have fiction, non-fiction and academic literature. We also have easy-to-read books, books to practice reading, books in other languages, and books to learn languages. Everyone with a print disability has the right to borrow talking books at the library, or download them through our library service Legimus.
Talking book or audio book?
The difference between a talking book and an audio book is both technical and legal. A talking book is intended for persons with a permanent or temporary print disability. Talking books are produced with public funds and in accordance with Section 17 of the Copyright Act. Briefly, this law provides that permission from the holder of the copyright is not required to produce a published book as a talking book.
An audio book is a commercial product that is subject to regular copyright rules, and can be borrowed or purchased by anyone.
Talking book production
In order to produce talking books, MTM does not require the permission of the copyright holders of the respective books, but each production must be reported to ALIS, a copyright organization. The recording of a talking book must conform with the original, which must be a published work.