Campus Times | Lucknow

In a powerful blend of technology and literature, Dr. Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University (DSMNRU) is proving that knowledge knows no barriers. The university’s Talking Book Studio, located within the Swami Vivekananda Central Library, has officially crossed the milestone of 3,500+ audiobooks, transforming the way students—especially the visually impaired—engage with knowledge.

From the heart-wrenching dialogues of Gunahon Ka Devta by Dharamvir Bharati to the timeless social realism of Godaan and Nirmala by Munshi Premchand, the library is no longer just a place of silence but a vibrant hub of storytelling and academic empowerment.

Bridging the Gap Through Sound

The studio is not merely a recording room; it is a gateway to equality. Prof. Yashwant Veeroday, In-charge of the Central Library, emphasizes that while the collection features literary masterpieces, its real strength lies in its academic diversity.

“Our objective is to provide an equal playing field. By converting complex textbooks into high-quality audio, we ensure that every student, regardless of physical ability, has the same opportunity to excel,” says Prof. Veeroday.

What’s in the Digital Library

The studio has carefully curated a vast repository that serves both competitive aspirants and literature enthusiasts:

• Academic Excellence: Audio versions of books for 54 higher education courses, including specialized materials for History, Political Science, Education, and Management.
• Foundation Learning: Complete NCERT textbooks from Class 6 to 12.
• Competitive Edge: Dedicated resources for UGC NET, SSC, UP TET, CTET, and CCC examinations.
• Skill Development: Courses in English speaking and environmental studies.
• Literary Classics: Works by Munshi Premchand, including Rangbhoomi and Sevasadan, along with other iconic plays and novels.

Extensive Academic Repository

The studio’s impact is reflected in its wide departmental coverage, ensuring students from diverse disciplines have access to relevant resources. Hindi Literature leads the collection with 63 specialized audiobooks, followed by Political Science with 53 titles. For students pursuing higher studies, the studio offers 76 audiobooks for History (BA & MA) and 90 dedicated resources for Education.

Professional courses are also well supported, with 23 audiobooks for Management students and 18 titles for those enrolled in the Master of Social Work (MSW) program. This makes the library a comprehensive hub for academic success.

The Vision for an Inclusive Future

Vice-Chancellor Sanjay Singh views the initiative as a cornerstone of the university’s mission.

“The Talking Book Studio is a testament to how modern technology can dismantle barriers. We are committed to building an inclusive campus where knowledge is accessible to all, not just to those who can read traditional print,” he says.

As the university continues to record new titles every day, the Talking Book Studio is setting a benchmark for digital accessibility and inclusive learning in Indian higher education.