What Is WJCT Radio Reading Service?
WJCT Radio Reading Service is a valuable service for community members who are visually or print impaired. WJCT Radio Reading Service broadcasts continuous readings of newspapers, magazines and books – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is the only service of its kind on the First Coast. As a listener, you will have access to a variety of local and national publications — The Florida Times-Union, The Wall Street Journal, popular magazines, best-selling books, and more.
Download a detailed program guide
How Can I Listen?
WJCT Radio Reading Service broadcasts on a special sub-channel of 89.9 FM WJCT-FM, a “hidden” portion of the station’s signal that cannot be picked up on regular radios. WJCT provides Radio Reading Service radios to eligible individuals at no charge on a “permanent loan” basis, for as long as they need them.
To get a radio, you must complete and return an application, with a professional’s certification. Download an application, or call (904) 358-6308.
How Can I Volunteer to Read?
Volunteers are an invaluable part of WJCT Radio Reading Service! Our local volunteers broadcast live readings from The Florida Times-Union seven mornings a week, as well as other printed material from local, regional and national publications. WJCT Radio Reading Service also participates in the annual First Coast Reads! program and other local initiatives.
To find out what it takes to be a WJCT Radio Reading Service volunteer, click here
Download a volunteer application
How Can I Get More Information?
If you are interested in WJCT Radio Reading Service and would like more information on becoming a listener or a volunteer, please call Pervalia Gaines at (904) 358-6308.
WJCT Radio Reading Service Needs Your Support!
WJCT Radio Reading Service is a free service to our listeners, but donations are appreciated to assist with programming costs and the purchase of new radio receivers for future listeners.
You can make donations to:
WJCT Radio Reading Service
100 Festival Park Avenue
Jacksonville, Florida 32202
904-358-6300
Thanks to all of the continued supporters and listeners!
Volunteer Profile/Information
WJCT Radio Reading Service relies on dedicated volunteers to maintain its local on-air presence.
Time Commitment
Volunteers commit to an average of 1 to 2 hours a week during normal business hours and limited weekend hours. (Although our service broadcasts 24 hours a day, our local readers volunteer only during the day. Other programming is provided via satellite from other sources.) Volunteers usually read with one or two partners, rotating the duties of reading. Volunteers read at the WJCT Studio, located in downtown Jacksonville across from Jacksonville Municipal Stadium.
Current Weekday Shifts
- 8 – 10 AM, Mon.-Fri. — Florida Times-Union
- 10 – 11 AM, Mon.-Fri. — Bulletin Board
- 11 AM – Noon, Mon. only — Weddings & Special Announcements
- 10 AM – Noon, Sat. — Florida Times-Union
- Noon-2 PM, Sun. — Florida Times-Union and commentary by Dr. Keith Johnson
Qualifications
- Sensitivity to individuals with sight/print impairments
- A pleasant reading voice
- Smooth reading ability
- Excellent pronunciation
- Good projection
- Nice inflection
- Availability
- Able to pass a reading audition
How To Apply
If becoming part of a dedicated team of volunteers who help bring printed materials to visually impaired listeners interests you, we encourage you to fill out the Volunteer Application available or call Pervalia Gaines at (904) 358-6308.
Download a volunteer application