Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Book Catalog and Products
Table of contents:
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Catalog
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Ordering
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Online Ordering and Accounts
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Book Orders
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Shipping
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Returns
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Books and Products
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Equipment
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General
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Ordering
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Can I purchase equipment using a check or purchase order online?
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How do I return a player or software for repair, refund or exchange?
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Troubleshooting
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Maintenance
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Software
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Catalog
Q: Can I do a subject and keyword search?
A: Currently, you may do keyword searching on the title, author and publisher fields, in the simple search or the advanced search in our Book Catalog. On the Subject/Keyword page you may do keyword searching across the full record of the book, do specific keyword searches on title, author, publisher, notes fields and as well as subject searching.
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Q: What do I do if my book search yields 0 titles?
A: If your search results yields zero titles, it does not necessarily mean the book is not in our library. We suggest starting with the Simple Search form and entering only Author and / or Title keywords. In general, when searching, less information will retrieve more results. If you retrieve too many books, you can also revise your search to narrow your results. For specific search help, we recommend you refer to our Search Tips, located on our Book Catalog search pages. If you still cannot locate a book, Member Services may be able to help you. Member Services can be reached at custserv@rfbd.org or 800-221-4792.
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Q: What is a shelf number?
A: RFB&D books are assigned an alphanumeric shelf number, such as GC031 for Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. If you know your shelf number, you can enter the shelf number for a quick search.
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Q: What is a product number?
A: RFB&D product numbers consist of a prefix for the book format and a shelf number.
Books on CD, which were converted from an original cassette master, have an AD- prefix. Ex.: AD-GC031 is the CD version of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, originally recorded in analog format.
Books on CD originally recorded in digital format have a DT- prefix. Digital books with a DT- prefix usually offer multiple levels of text navigation - page, chapter and sometimes, subchapter levels. Digital books with an AD- prefix, because they were converted from an analog master, offer page-level navigation only. In some books, the pagination may be off and in these cases, members may need to navigate through the book using the FORWARD and BACK keys on their CD players or software, rather than navigating directly to a specific page number.
For downloadable books, there are two types of products:
- AudioAccess or Windows Media downloadable books have a WM prefix. AudioAccess offer page and chapter navigation using your Windows Media player or portable media player.
- AudioPlus downloadable books have a DL- prefix. These digital audiobooks
are DAISY 2.02 books and offer the same navigation as our original AudioPlus
books on CD.
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Q: What is an ISBN number?
A: An ISBN is the International Standard Book Number. ISBNs are located on the reverse side of the title page of the book. Books can have multiple ISBNs and recently 13-digit ISBNs were added to new titles. ISBNs are specific to a publisher's version of a title. For example, the paperback and hardcover versions of a title may have different ISBNs. Likewise, two books of the same title published by different publishers will have different ISBNs. If you retrieve zero results when searching by ISBN, do your search again using Title or Title / Author keywords, as the title may still be in the RFB&D library, but with a different ISBN than the copy you searched on.
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Q: What is a modular book?
A: Modular book sets contain a number of individual titles that fall under a main title. For example: Main title: Biology: The Unity and Diversity of Life. Individual modules for this book include:
- Cell Biology and Genetics
- Diversity of Life
- Ecology and Behavior
- Evolution of Life
- Plant Structure and Function
- Animal Structure and Function
When searching for these titles, you may search by the main title or you may search by one of the modular titles.
Searching by the main title will retrieve both the main title and all of the individual modules. Searching by one of the individual modules will retrieve that specific title and the main title.
In a modular set, you can identify the main title by the prefixes: AD-CP or DT-CP.
If you order the complete modular set, it counts as one book when ordered. Individual modules ordered count as the quantity of books ordered.
For example, if you choose Biology: The Unity and Diversity of Life,
it will count as one book ordered and you will receive all the individual
modules in the set (i.e. Cell Biology and Genetics, Diversity of Life,
Ecology and Behavior, Evolution of Life, Plant Structure and Function, and
Animal Structure and Function). If you don't order the entire title
Biology: The Unity and Diversity of Life, but instead order the individual
modules Cell Biology and Genetics and Diversity of Life, it will
count as two book orders because you ordered two individual modules.
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Q: What is an installment?
A: An installment provides members finished sections from books that are still in the process of being recorded. The installments include the same navigation as RFB&D's AudioPlus books and will play on all RFB&D enabled equipment. Installments are available on all AudioPlus CD and downloadable books. AudioAccess, Microsoft Windows Media books, are available when the book is completed.
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Q: Are these installments available to member schools and other member agencies? How many can be ordered?
A: Yes, our policy on installments is: one (1) copy of a particular title for individuals and three (3) copies for schools/agencies.
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Q: Does ordering the installment count against a members' book limit?
A: Yes, since members will eventually receive the full book at time of completion, titles ordered count toward the members' book limits.
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Q: What is the specific timeframe in which a member can expect installments once the order is placed, and subsequent installments?
A: Once an installment order is placed for audiobooks on CD, it should be produced and shipped out from RFB&D headquarters within 24-48 hours. Since these digital installments are shipped via free matter, you should begin to receive them within 2-4 weeks of the initial order. Additional installments will then begin to arrive approximately 3 weeks thereafter until completion of the book, at which time a completed copy of the digital book (in its entirety) will be provided to you.
Installments are created on the same schedule for AudioPlus downloadable books. Members will be notified by e-mail with the release number of the installment and what pages are contained on the new installment.
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Q: What is a reservation?
A: When a title is listed in the catalog but is not currently available/completed, you may place a reservation order. Books in reservation status are:
- in pre-production awaiting the recording process OR
- currently in the process of being recorded
When a title is listed in the catalog as available in installments, you
will receive parts of the book as they become completed. When placing your
order you may choose "Reservations" to receive the book in its
entirety when it is completed, or you may choose to receive the book in
"Installments" as they become available.
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Q: I am an international individual member and I don't see any books on tape in the online catalog. Can I now order books on CD?
A: Unfortunately, RFB&D is limited by US copyright law and we are unable to send digitally produced audiobooks outside the borders of the United States. However, we value our loyal international individual members and realize that the only way to serve you is to offer audiobook titles from our digital collection on four-track cassette until such time as an alternative solution can be determined. RFB&D individual members may contact Member Services at 800-221-4792 to place orders for books in cassette format from titles in our digital library for delivery outside the US.
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Q: Do I need a computer to access RFB&D's audiobook library?
A: No, you do not need a computer to access RFB&D's audiobook library. RFB&D Member Service representatives can search the book catalog for you. You can call 800-221-4792 to speak with a representative or you can also fax your book order to Member Services 609-987-8116.
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Q: What do I do if I have an edition of a book that is earlier/later than the one in your catalog?
A: We generally suggest that you first order the edition of the book, closest in date, to the exact book you need. In many cases, the content of different editions of the same title varies only slightly and this other edition may help you with most of the content needed for your studies/needs.
There are two other options for obtaining the exact edition you need:
- You may send in one copy of the book and request that the book be recorded
for our library. The decision to record a given book is based on the following
criteria:
- If the book falls within the educational scope of our library
- If we have volunteer readers available who are familiar with the subject area
- If one copy of the book with your name and Borrower ID Number written
inside the book are provided.
RFB&D records multiple editions of many books; however we generally will only record two editions of the book older than the current edition of the book in use.
- If you do not want to send in one copy of the book for recording or if you do not need the title immediately, you can make a Title Suggestion either online or by calling Member Services at 800-221-4792. Note that you must have activated your account and be logged in to make a Title Suggestion.
To make an online Title Suggestion, search for your book in the Book Catalog,
making sure you search on the exact edition of the book you need. If the
book is not in our catalog, the search results screen will give you the
option to enter a Title Suggestion. On the title suggestion form, be sure
to enter the date you need the book by in the Date Needed by Member field.
Title suggestions are reviewed monthly by our librarians and we may acquire
your book for recording in the future.
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Q: I need to request a book that is not currently in your library. Is it possible to have it recorded for me?
A: Although it is impossible to record every new book published, RFB&D records approximately 7,000 new titles every year to provide our members with the most popular textbooks being used. In a case where we do not have a book you need, you may request that it be added to our library. The decision to record a given book is based on the following criteria:
- If the book falls within the educational scope of our library
- If we have volunteer readers available who are familiar with the subject area
- If one copy of the book with your name and Borrower ID Number written inside the book is provided
RFB&D's policy is to record only complete, copyrighted books that are educational in nature and that support a formal academic curriculum. If RFB&D is able to add the title you submit to our recorded library, we will retain the copies of the print book until the recording process is complete. While a book is in the process of being recorded, we will send CDs to you in installments so that you may begin using the audiobook as quickly as possible.
Please note that RFB&D studios mark texts with penciled instructions
to guide volunteer readers through the sequence of text, charts, illustrations
and footnotes.
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Q: What if I need additional help with the
online catalog?
A: Please visit our section dedicated to providing detailed help and tips for using the online catalog.
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Ordering
Online Ordering
Q: How can I create an online account?
A: In order to establish a login name and password, visit the Creating your Online Account page. You must have the following information available:
- Your active RFB&D Membership ID Number*
- A valid e-mail address. If you already provided an email address when you registered with RFB&D, you should use it here. If you did not, you may still proceed.
- Your birthday (for individuals)
- Your shipping address zip code (for institutions)
An activation code is issued after the initial registration to the Ordering Center. You will need reply to an email to finalize your account.
*Please note that RFB&D individual membership id numbers begin with
the letter "I" or the first four letters of your last name. Institutional
membership id numbers begin with the letter(s) "A" or "AG".
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Q: Why can't I log in?
A: Check the following:
- You are currently registered with RFB&D.
- Your RFB&D account is active. If you don't have an account, sign
up now.
- Your e-mail address is active. If you provided RFB&D with an e-mail address when you registered for membership, make sure you use that same address when you log in.
- You have activated your RFB&D online account.
- You are using the correct login name and password.
If you need further assistance please contact Member Services at 800-221-4792.
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Q: What should I do if I forgot my user ID?
A: On the Member Log In screen, select Forgot User ID? To receive your user ID you will need your account number and your e-mail address. If you do not know either of these, email custserv@rfbd.org or contact Member Services at 800-221-4792.
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Q: What should I do if I forgot my password?
A: On the Member Log In page, select Forgot Password? To receive your password you will need your user ID and your e-mail address. If you do not know either of these, email custserv@rfbd.org or contact Member Services at 800-221-4792.
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Q: Why do I need to give an e-mail address?
A: Registering your e-mail address with RFB&D allows us to communicate important account information and RFB&D news through e-mail. By having your e-mail address, we will be able to confirm your online account, orders and respond to any inquiries. We do not share this information with other companies.
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Q: What do I do if my e-mail address has changed?
A: Your e-mail address is your user ID. If your e-mail address changes, you must update your profile so that you can continue to get communications and information from RFB&D and be recognized as an RFB&D online account holder. If you place an order using your old e-mail address, you will not receive order confirmations.
To update your e-mail address, you must log in using your current ID and password. Then select the My Account button, which will bring you to the Change Account Information page. Select View/Change Account Information, make the desired changes, and then select the Update button at the bottom of the page.
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Q: Do I have to have an online account with RFB&D?
A: No, you don't have to have an online account to order books and players. However, an RFB&D online account offers many benefits. You can search RFB&D's entire book and product catalogs and then place your book order or purchase players and software. You also may save a book list for ordering at a later time or request installments of not-yet-completed books. Finally, you may check order status and view and update your account information 24/7.
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Q: Can my school have more than one ID and password?
A: Currently, our systems are only able to support one user ID per RFB&D account.
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Q: My Institution's personnel have changed. How do I update this information?
A: All Institutional member contact information must be submitted in writing. Please email changes to Member Services: aimcustserv@rfbd.org or fax to 609-987-8116.
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Q: Why do I have to use an activation code to order online?
A: An activation code is issued at the initial registration to the Ordering Center. Once your account is activated you will not need this code to place further orders.
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Q: My session timed out. Will I lose my order?
A: If your session times out, you will automatically be logged out of our site. Any orders that have been completed will not be lost but any items left in your shopping cart will be removed.
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Q: Why are items in my shopping cart are no longer there?
A: There are several reasons why items may no longer be in your shopping cart. First, if you completed an order for you items, they are automatically removed from your shopping cart. Second, if you logged out of the site and returned, the items are removed as well; items must be put into a saved items list if you wish to keep them after you log out as the shopping cart is always emptied when you log out. Another possibility is that your session timed out, which automatically logs you out and empties your shopping cart. If you have received an error message during your visit to our site and were asked to log in again; a site error forcibly logs you out and empties the cart.
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Q: Why was my credit card denied/rejected?
A: To find out why your credit card was denied or rejected, contact our Member Services department at 800-221-4792.
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Book Orders
Q: How do I place an order?
A: You can order your audiobooks online by visiting our catalog. You may browse the book catalog without logging in, but you must log in to place any orders.
To order AudioPlus or AudioAccess downloadable books, you must log into your online account. If you do not already have an online account, setting up an account is simple and free.
To order by:
- Online: RFB&D catalog
- E-mail: custserv@rfbd.org
- Phone: 800-221-4792
- Fax: 609-987-8116
- Mail: Attn: Member Services
RFB&D
20 Roszel Road
Princeton NJ 08540
Provide the following information:
- Member id number
- Name
- Daytime phone number
- Mailing address
- Book title and/or shelf number
- Author
- Copyright date, edition and/or grade level
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Q: What information should I have ready when calling to place a book order?
A: The book ordering process will go much more quickly once you obtain all the pertinent information about the titles you are requesting. Please supply the following information when you place an order:
- Your name
- Your membership number
- Your school's name (for Annual Institutional Memberships)
- The RFB&D shelf number (you can access it from the online catalog)
- Book's title
- Author's full name
- Copyright date
- Edition or grade level for each book
- ISBN, usually located on the back cover
Whether you wish the book on CD or in downloadable format. Note that special equipment is needed to play RFB&D's audiobooks.
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Q: What are the payment options?
A: Online orders can be paid by Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American
Express. Schools and agencies can submit purchase order information for
payment. Mail orders can be paid by check, money order, purchase orders
and credit cards.
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Q: How can I cancel an order?
A: To see if your order can be canceled, please contact Member Services
at 800-221-4792. If your order has already been processed and shipped
to you, we unfortunately cannot cancel it. If you still do not wish to receive
your order, you may do one of two things 1) Follow normal return procedures,
or 2) Refuse delivery of the package and when it is returned to us, a credit
for the merchandise total will be issued to your credit card. (Shipping
and handling are non refundable.)
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Q: What is the standard turnaround time for processing an order?
A: It takes approximately 2-3 business days to have your order ready to ship.
Our busiest times are the months of January and August through mid-October.
Processing a book request can take up to a week during this time and mail
delivery may add an additional two weeks. We encourage you to place your
book requests well ahead of these months.
Our downloadable services, AudioAccess and AudioPlus Downloadable, are
immediately processed through our website.
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Q: Is there a limit on order quantities?
A: If you are an individual member, the annual book limit is 35. If you are an institutional member, the annual book limit depends on your level of service i.e. Level 1 = 25, level 2 = 50, level 3 = 100. Institutions may purchase add-on packages if they feel they will exceed their book limits in the course of the membership year.
For books in the process of being recorded, institutions are limited to
five copies of a title and individuals are limited to two copies. There
is no limit on equipment orders.
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Q: How can I see how many more books I can order this year?
A: The My Account page lists "Books Ordered" and "Book Limit" for this Membership Year. Subtract "Books Ordered" from "Book Limit" to know how many more books you can order this year.
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Q: I have used up all my books allowed. Now what do I do? (Institutions)
A: Member Institutions who have reached or exceeded their book limit can purchase add-on packages to enhance their membership. Please view the add-on packages or call Member Services at 800-221-4792. Add-on packages can be purchased at anytime during the membership year.
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Q: Can I review my order history?
A: Members can look up their order history by selecting the Order History button.
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Q: How can I see a listing of books that I returned to RFB&D?
A: Currently, you cannot see a listing of the books that you returned to RFB&D; this function may be included in a future enhancement to the site. However, you can view a list of books that are currently listed as in your possession. Select the My Account button. The My Account screen contains a section entitled Books in Possession. If a book is not listed as in your possession, you may assume that RFB&D has received the returned book. If a book you returned is still listed as in your possession, please contact member services at 800-221-4792 to resolve the problem.
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Q: How do I print a list of the books I have borrowed?
A: Select the My Account button. On the My Account screen, there is a section called Books in Possession. You may print this page by using the print function on your web browser. Or, you may select the Order History button, select the order history you wish to see, and select View Order Details for each order you wish to print.
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Q: Why can't I order digital books?
A: To order digital books you must obtain and sign a Copyright Agreement Form. You may also obtain the form by contacting member services at 800-221-4792. RFB&D members who reside outside of the United States, unless they are US citizens living temporarily abroad for studies or military service, cannot order books in a digital format. Please see Can I place a book order outside of the US?
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Q: Can I order a book if I am not an RFB&D member?
A: No, you must be an RFB&D member to order books. If you wish to become an RFB&D member, register online or call our member services department at 800-221-4792.
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Shipping
Q: What are the shipping options?
A: AudioPlus CDs are shipped Free Matter for the Blind and Other Physically Handicapped Persons which can take up to two weeks to arrive.
We also offer United Parcel Service (UPS) or USPS (United States Postal Service). Payment is required at the time of the order. Upgrading your shipping method will not change the processing time but will affect how quickly you receive your order.
Equipment orders must be shipped UPS to street addresses only. (No PO boxes)
Our downloadable services, AudioAccess and AudioPlus Downloadable, are
delivered immediately through our website.
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Q: How can I tell if my order was shipped?
A: Log into your account, select the Order History button, scroll to find your order, and select View Order Details. The estimated ship date and actual ship date are displayed.
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Q: How can I track my order?
A: UPS orders can be tracked online. Log in to your account, select the Order History button, scroll to find your order, and select View Order Details. The Shipping History section contains the UPS tracking link for your order.
Free Matter and first class orders are not traceable.
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Q: How can I change my shipping address?
A: Log in and go
to My Account, select View/Change Account Information, and
select the address to update and select Edit. Make the necessary
changes and select the Update button.
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Q: Can I change my shipping address temporarily for a single order?
A: Individuals can create an additional ship-to address that can be used for any order.
Institutional accounts cannot create a temporary address for a single order. Institutions must contact Member Services at 800-221-4792 to change their ship-to address.
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Q: Can I ship to multiple locations?
A: Only one shipping address per order is permitted.
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Q: What if I haven't received my order?
A: If you do not receive your books within 15 business days of placing your order, check the order status by logging in to your online account and selecting the Order History button. Scroll to find the order and select View Order Details. The Shipping History section will display the shipment date and mailing method of the order. If more than 15 business days have lapsed since the order was placed, contact Member Services at 800-221-4792.
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Q: Can I place a book order outside the US?
A: RFB&D individual members may contact Member Services at 800-221-4792 to place orders for books in cassette format from titles in our digital library for delivery outside the US. Currently, digital books cannot be delivered to non-US addresses with the exception of addresses of US citizens living temporarily abroad. RFB&D does not currently provide school or institutional memberships for foreign-based institutions.
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Returns
Q: Do I need to return my AudioPlus CDs when I am finished using them?
A: Effective January 1, 2009, RFB&D members no longer have to return AudioPlus CDs during or at the end of their membership year. We are instituting this new policy in an effort to simplify book management and reduce production costs.
Per US Copyright laws, RFB&D AudioPlus CDs can not be transferred to
or shared with any person who is not an Individual member or has not been
certified and is receiving services under an Institutional membership. Please
destroy any RFB&D AudioPlus CDs you will no longer be using. If you
have the ability to shred and recycle the material, please take advantage
of this eco-friendly resource.
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Q: Do members have to return digital installments?
A: No. As with all RFB&D titles borrowed, effective January 1, 2009, RFB&D members no longer have to return AudioPlus CD installments during or at the end of their membership year. We are instituting this new policy in an effort to simplify book management and reduce production costs.
Per US Copyright laws, RFB&D AudioPlus CDs can not be transferred to
or shared with any person who is not an Individual member or has not been
certified and is receiving services under an Institutional membership. Please
destroy any RFB&D AudioPlus installment CDs you will no longer be using.
If you have the ability to shred and recycle the material, please take advantage
of this eco-friendly resource.
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Books and Products
General
Q: How do I use my RFB&D books?
A: Most RFB&D books allow you to navigate by page, chapter, and sometimes higher levels, such as units or sections. It depends on how your book is set up. RFB&D follows the format of the original book, which includes describing all graphs, charts, pictures etc.
All RFB&D products allow you to start at your last position in the book. When you stop at a particular spot in the book and turn the machine off, the unit will remember where you left off for the next time.
Multi-CD Books
Some of RFB&D digital books are large enough to need more than one CD.
Since RFB&D players have last-position-remembered capability, the players
will always expect you to start at the last position in the book and then
move to your desired page by the "go to page" function. When you
use the "go to page" feature, the player will tell you which CD
to put in.
The first time you use the book, the player will expect you to start with
CD number 1 and then move from there.
If you forget where you left off, just put in any CD, and the player will tell you which CD you should be starting with.
Installment Books
When you order a book from RFB&D that is still in the recording stages,
you can request to receive the book in installments until the recording
is completed.
You will receive an updated CD approximately every 3 weeks. Each one of these installments is called a "release." Each release contains all the material recorded so far; each release completely replaces the prior ones. Therefore, to avoid confusion, you can (and should) discard the old release when you receive a new one.
To help you sort the CDs, the release number is on the right hand side of the CD under the book ID number.
AudioAccess downloadable audiobooks
For help using AudioAccess, please visit
the AudioAccess technical support website.
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Q: What does RFB&D do to make a book accessible?
A: All of RFB&D's audiobooks are first read by a volunteer that is an expert in the subject matter. The recording is then transferred into a specialized format that has been specially built with capabilities that allow the user to go to specific pages or chapters, place bookmarks and speed up or slow down the reader's voice.
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Q: What is digital audio?
A: Digital audio is sound recorded as data or numbers. A computer can be used to record and play back the sound of a person's voice. Because the audio is stored as data, it provides several benefits over analog tape recordings, which is how RFB&D's cassettes have traditionally been recorded.
RFB&D's AudioPlus books were developed in cooperation with two standard-setting organizations: an international group known as the DAISY Consortium (Digital Accessible Information System) and NISO (National Information Standards Organization).
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RFB&D Books
Q: How do I play RFB&D's AudioPlus DAISY format textbooks?
A: RFB&D's AudioPlus CDs can be accessed either on playback devices that have been programmed to accept the CDs or on specialized software. Visit our Product Catalog for more information on playback devices.
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Q: What is AudioAccess?
A: AudioAccess enables members to download RFB&D audiobooks directly to a Microsoft® Windows®-compatible computer - and sync them with a compatible portable media player.
With AudioAccess, members can download all the audio textbooks and literature they need for an entire year. And, by syncing the downloaded audio textbooks to a portable media player, they can take them wherever they travel. Now, it will be easier for RFB&D members to use books at school, at home and on the go.
Audio textbooks available through AudioAccess provide the same high-quality sound production for an excellent listening experience and are completely unabridged, just like AudioPlus books. Members also have access to the same great choice of titles from the largest library of audio textbooks and literature in the U.S.
Now AudioAccess joins AudioPlus as another great choice from RFB&D. Members can choose a combination of services that they prefer, all included in their Learning Through Listening membership.
Here are some other important details about our service.
- AudioAccess is fast and easy to use
- No specialized playback equipment is required
- Most people already have everything that's needed, including:
- Microsoft® Windows XP or Vista
- High-speed Internet connection
- Compatible media player
- Microsoft Windows Media Player, version 10 or higher
- RFB&D Download Manager provided free from RFB&D
For more information, please visit the AudioAccess Support website.
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Q: What are the benefits of RFB&D's AudioAccess books?
A: With AudioAccess, members can download all the audio textbooks and literature they need for an entire year. And, by syncing the downloaded audio textbooks to a portable media player, they can take them wherever they travel. Now, it will be easier for RFB&D members to use books at school, at home and on the go.
Audio textbooks available through AudioAccess provide the same high-quality sound production for an excellent listening experience and are completely unabridged, just like AudioPlus books. Members also have access to the same great choice of titles from the largest library of audio textbooks and literature in the US.
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Q: What if I need help using AudioAccess?
A: For technical support for AudioAccess, please visit the AudioAccess Support website, or call 800-772-3248.
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Q: What is downloadable AudioPlus?
A: RFB&D members can now download our popular DAISY-format AudioPlus audiobooks in minutes.
Downloadable AudioPlus offers the same variable speed, bookmarking and navigational features as our AudioPlus CDs. With downloadable AudioPlus, you can now:
- Get instant access to DAISY-format audiobooks in just minutes
- Listen and learn in school, at home and on the go
- Eliminate worries about CD mailings, storage or returns
- Play downloaded books directly from a Microsoft® Windows®-compatible computer with DAISY software or on a specialized DAISY player
- And, as with all of our 50,000 books, hear content read by humans, not
by synthetic voice
Visit our downloadable AudioPlus page for more information.
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Q: What if I need help using downloadable AudioPlus?
A: Visit our AudioPlus Support website for assistance.
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Equipment
General
Q: Why does RFB&D record in specialized formats?
A: RFB&D records in specialized formats to comply with US copyright law and to protect the intellectual property of the publishers whose works we make available in accessible format. US Copyright law allows us to duplicate titles provided we offer them in specialized formats, and only to a qualified population. In our case, that population includes people with documented disabilities, such as a learning disability, visual impairment or other physical disability.
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Q: Why do I need specialized equipment to listen to RFB&D's audiobooks?
A: The audiobooks you receive from RFB&D are not like the standard CDs or MP3s you play on your stereo at home or in your car. RFB&D produces CDs and downloadable audio textbooks that are protected from distribution to the public and that are only available to registered RFB&D members who have provided proof of disability. If you choose to listen to RFB&D's AudioPlus books, you'll need a specially equipped CD player or software. RFB&D offers for sale a selection of portable and desktop players and CD-reading software for students, teachers and professionals to use in the classroom, office or at home. We also offer listening accessories, such as headsets and adapters.
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Q: What equipment do I need to play these digital audiobooks?
A: RFB&D offers, for nonprofit sale, a number of playback
options for use when listening to RFB&D's AudioPlus digitally recorded
textbooks on CD. You may choose portable or desktop CD-ROM players specially
equipped to play RFB&D's books, or you can use specialized software.
Please view view our
full product line.
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Ordering
Q: How do I place an order for playback equipment?
A: Members can order online by logging in to their account. You may browse the product catalog without logging in, but you must log in to place any orders. You can purchase equipment online using a valid credit card on our secure site. Schools and agencies can submit purchase order information for payment. Payments by check or money order must be mailed to us.
You can also order by:
- E-mail: custserv@rfbd.org
- Phone: 800-221-4792
- Fax: 609-987-8116
- Mail: Attn: Member Services
RFB&D
20 Roszel Road
Princeton NJ 08540
For your convenience, you may click on the link below for printable order forms.
Player and Accessory
Order Form (PDF)
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Q: Can I purchase equipment using a check or purchase order online?
A: You can purchase equipment online using a valid credit card, but not by check. If you wish to pay by check or money order, you must place your order by mail. Purchase orders can be used online, faxed or mailed to us. The mailing address is 20 Roszel Road, Princeton, NJ 08540. The fax number is 609-987-8116.
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Q: How can I place a gift order for a member?
A: If you want to purchase playback equipment as a gift, or are an agency purchasing equipment on behalf of an RFB&D member, you will need to complete a Non-Member Affiliate Copyright Form. You may also obtain the form by calling Member Services at 800-221-4792. However, you can only order equipment for an RFB&D member; only RFB&D members can order books.
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Q: Can I purchase a product if I'm not an RFB&D member?
A: If you want to purchase playback equipment as a gift, or are an agency purchasing equipment on behalf of an RFB&D member, you will need to complete a Non-Member Affiliate Copyright Form. You may also obtain the form by calling member services at 800-221-4792.
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Q: How do I return a player or software for repair, refund or exchange?
A: Call RFB&D's member services at 800-221-4792 to speak with Product Support representative. You will receive a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and further instructions on how to proceed.
30 day return policy:
- Product must be back at RFB&D headquarters within 30 days.
- Customer must contact us before sending anything back for an RMA number.
- Must be unused and in original packaging.
- If all conditions are met, a refund or exchange will be issued.
Machine not working or damaged:
- Customer must contact us and receive RMA number to send back machine.
- Product must be with in specified warranty.
- Depending on manufacturer's judgment customer may have to pay fee for machine to be fixed (e.g. If machine was dropped or broken by user).
Returning software:
- Software cannot be returned for any reason if it has been opened. No exceptions.
- If software is not open it must be sent back to RFB&D headquarters
within 30 days of purchase.
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Troubleshooting
Q: Do you have accessible instructions for the audiobook players?
A: RFB&D offers instructions and training in a number of formats to meet the varying needs of our members.
- Audiobook players come with recorded instructions and audiobook software readers work with screen readers for voiced instructions.
- Getting Started text files are available on this website.
- Visit our AudioPlus Equipment
Training and Support Materials page for additional help.
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Q: How can multiple students listen to the same book at the same time?
A:
- All portable players can be connected to external speakers for whole class lessons.
- Two-way and six-way splitters can be purchased to allow multiple students
to use a playback device simultaneously.
- All players, desktop and portable, can be connected to headphones for
individual listening.
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Q: I've turned my player on and nothing happens, or I've pressed PLAY and nothing happens, even though the machine is turned on. What do I do?
A:
- Check that the power cord is securely plugged into the wall and into the machine.
- If using the player with battery only, you may need to recharge the battery.
- Make sure the volume is turned up.
- Make sure the CD is label-side up and inserted correctly into the CD slot drive or on the CD spindle.
- If you are using a portable player with no speakers, you MUST use headphones to listen to any book. Make sure the headphones are plugged firmly into the player.
- If there is a hold button, make sure it is switched to "Off".
- Make sure the CD has completely loaded before pressing PLAY. Once the CD has finished loading, you will hear the title being read. If the CD is loaded but is not recognized, perform an UNCONDITIONAL SHUTDOWN/EJECT and try again.
UNCONDITIONAL SHUTDOWN / EJECT
Victor Reader Wave
If the Wave should lock up for any reason, press and hold the ON/OFF button.
This will shut down the player. Then you can turn the power back on and
continue listening to your book.
PTN1
If the PTN1 should lock up for any reason, press and hold the ON/OFF button
and the SLEEP TIMER key at the same time for eight seconds. This will shut
down the PTN1. Turn the power back on and continue listening to your book.
PTR2
If the PTR2 should lock up for any reason, pull the POWER On/Off switch
toward the front for 10 seconds. This will shut down the PTR2. Then you
can turn the power back on and continue listening to your book.
Victor Classic X+
If you cannot read a CD and the EJECT button does not eject the CD, press
the EJECT button and the POWER button together to power on the machine and
eject the CD from the CD slot drive. You should perform the "unconditional
eject" if any of the following conditions exist:
- The Key Describer function does not work.
- You hear the disc spinning and nothing is happening.
- You are unable to insert another CD in the CD slot drive. Please report this problem to RFB&D's product support at 800-221-4792.
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Q: Even though I have a CD inserted, the Voice Guide says No Disc, or the CD ejects when I insert it into the CD slot drive. What do I do?
A:
- Remove the CD and reinsert it, making sure the label is facing up.
- Remove the CD and clean it with a soft, dry cloth.
- Shut down the player for 30 seconds and then turn the power back on.
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Q: When I enter a page number on the keypad, the place it goes to is off by a page or two. What do I do?
A:
- Make sure the RFB&D CD is the same edition and copyright year as the print book you are using. If not, follow the instructions for paging forward and backward manually.
- Some of RFB&D's digitally recorded textbooks that were converted from the original analog recording (e.g. AD-FG555) may have missing "markers" on some pages. This makes it impossible to jump directly to that page. Follow the instructions for paging forward or backward manually.
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Q: Can I start listening to a multiple-CD book at any point in the book?
A: Wave
The Wave does allow this function and will remember your last position in
the book. If you insert a CD other than the one containing your last position,
the player will ask you to insert the correct CD. Please remove the CD and
insert the CD that contains the last page you were listening to.
PTN1
The PTN1 does allow this function. The first time you listen to a multiple-CD
book, you must insert the first CD before you can listen to any of the other
CDs. After that, the PTN1 will remember your last position in the book (until
you shutdown the player). If you shutdown the player, you will have to insert
the first CD again, before you can listen to any of the other CDs. NOTE:
If you insert a CD other than the one containing your last position, the
player will ask you to insert the correct CD. Please eject the CD and insert
the CD that contains the last page you were listening to.
Victor Classic X+
The Victor Classic X+ does allow this function. The first time you listen
to a book you must insert the first CD before you can navigate to another
section. After that, the software will remember your last position in the
book. NOTE: If you insert a CD other than the one containing your
last position, you will be prompted to insert the correct CD. Please eject
the incorrect CD and insert the correct CD in the CD-ROM drive.
PTR2
- The PTR2 does allow this function. The first time you listen to a multiple-CD book, you must insert the first CD before you can listen to any of the other CDs.
- After that, the PTR2 will remember your last position in the book until you shutdown the player. If you shutdown the player, you will have to insert the first CD again, before you can listen to any of the other CDs. NOTE: If you insert a CD other than the one containing your last position, the player will ask you to insert the correct CD. Eject the CD and insert the CD that contains the last page you were listening to.
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Q: How do I jump around in a multiple CD book?
A: Use the GO TO PAGE key or navigate using next/previous functions within a set heading level.
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Q: I've used the "Go to Page" button, but my player says the page is missing. What do I do?
A: RFB&D has converted its analog books into digital format (e.g. AD-FG555). Analog books converted to digital format [AD-] are navigable by page. If the beeptones (page/chapter) were omitted from the analog version of the book, RFB&D was unable to incorporate them into the digital copy. Therefore, if you try to navigate by the "Go to Page" button, the player will state "Page Not Found." Try navigating to the closest page, and then use the page-by-page navigation function. This is described on the instruction CD and also in the quick reference guide that was supplied with your player. For example, if page 55 is not found, try navigating to page 56 and then page back to 55.
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Q: I can't use my playback equipment. Who should I contact?
A: Please contact Member Services for technical support concerning your playback equipment at 800-221-4792.
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Maintenance
Q: What is the best way for me to take care of RFB&D's playback equipment throughout the year?
A: There are several things you can do to keep your RFB&D players running smoothly throughout the year.
- Between each use, be sure to clean all headphones with another alcohol swab and for nighttime storage, wrap the cord loosely around the headsets and place them in a plastic bag.
- Wipe machines with a soft cloth to keep dust particles from entering the tape head or CD lens area.
- To keep the buttons from getting sticky, clean them with a damp cloth.
- After you've finished cleaning the machines, place the players back in the original packaging or in a container with padding to cushion the machines during storage.
- All of RFB&D's equipment, including adapters, should be stored in
a secure, cool, dry place where there is no risk of damage or theft.
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Q: What's the best way to store my equipment?
A:
- After cleaning the machines and headsets, place the players back in the original packaging or in a container with padding to cushion the machines during storage.
- Store all equipment, including adapters, in a secure, cool, dry place
such as a locking cabinet.
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Q: What's the best way to track my equipment?
A: Create a unique number or code for each piece of equipment and label each device. This will allow you and your students to quickly reference a particular device.
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Software
Q: How do I register my software?
A: The following are the steps required for registering RFB&D software. If at any time you need help or have questions please contact Member Services at 800-221-4792 and an RFB&D member services representative will be happy to provide assistance.
- Install the software onto your computer.
- After installation, open the Software.
- Click "enter key" or "OK" at the copyright/ key expired notice
- You will see a screen that says "ENTER YOUR NAME AND KEY BELOW AS GIVEN". Directly above the "NAME" field you will see a HARDWARE FINGER PRINT. Copy this code down.
- Click button that says "GO TO WEBSITE" or go to WWW.RFBD.ORG/REGISTER.
- Follow the prompts to enter your ID number and then the Finger Print.
- Register software and take the NAME and KEY back to the box mentioned in step 4.
NOTE: If you are using JAWS you will need to make your curser a
JAWS curser in order to read the Hardware Finger print.
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Q: Is the playback software compatible with my computer?
A: View our list of requirements, or contact Member Services at 800-221-4792 to speak to a product support representative.




