Accessibility links
Accessibility Statement for NPR NPR's Accessibility Statement

Accessibility

NPR's mission is to work in partnership with Member stations to create a more informed public – one challenged and invigorated by a deeper understanding and appreciation of events, ideas and cultures. To ensure that our content is accessible to all audiences, we have implemented practices and procedures to aid in the accessibility of our content and distribution platforms.

NPR currently supports the accessibility of our content with:

  • Transcripts
  • Screen reader compatibility
  • Video captioning
  • Keyboard navigation
  • Skip links
  • Aria labels
  • Color contrast ratio testing

Below are details about some of these efforts, and information about how we work with third parties.

Transcripts

NPR aspires to make transcripts available for all NPR-produced broadcast shows and podcasts.

The transcript button (pictured below right) appears on the right side of the audio player bar for story pages and podcast episode pages at NPR.org.

Image of npr.org transcript button: five horizontal lines of varying lengths in a circle.
NPR

For broadcast content, transcripts are typically published or linked directly on individual story pages at NPR.org. For stories with multimedia content and digital companion reporting, you will find the transcript link as a button in the audio player bar. We publish transcripts as soon as they are available. Because the transcripts are reviewed for accuracy, they are not published at the same time as the audio.

For podcasts, transcripts are available on individual podcast episode pages by clicking the transcript button in the audio player bar. Please note that NPR platforms and products also include some podcasts produced by third parties, and NPR cannot guarantee transcripts for those podcasts. More detail is available in the section on third-party content below.

NPR transcripts from 1990 to now are free in many public libraries.

If you aren't able to find a specific transcript that you are looking for, please email accessibility@npr.org for assistance.

Screen reader compatibility

NPR works to ensure that our websites and applications are screen reader compatible and guided by the standards recommended by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). We recommend using the most recent versions of web browsers and mobile applications for the best experience. If you encounter any issues, please email accessibility@npr.org for assistance.

Video captioning

Many NPR-produced editorial videos include captioning. For NPR-produced videos where captions are not currently offered, alternatives may be available. You can send a request to accessibility@npr.org.

Third-party content, distribution channels and venues

NPR works with third parties in a variety of ways. In some cases, we distribute content that was produced by third parties and not by NPR. In other cases, third parties distribute NPR-produced content on platforms that are controlled by those third parties and not by NPR. We also host live events at venues across the country. While NPR works with third-party content creators, distribution channels, and venues to consider accessibility, NPR does not control how third parties operate. Certain features and experiences may be different than those usually provided by NPR. If you have questions or feedback about the accessibility of NPR content available through third parties, please email accessibility@npr.org. Below is more information to help you understand how NPR works with third-party content providers, distributors, and venues:

  • Third-party content: NPR makes various types of third-party content available through its platforms, including: (i) content produced by NPR Member stations and other third-party public media organizations; (ii) content linked or embedded from third-party platforms, such as YouTube and Vimeo; and (iii) content sourced from outside photo, audio, and video producers. In addition, NPR platforms may include links to content on third-party websites.
  • Third-party distribution: You may also find NPR content on various third-party distribution channels, including: (i) Member station websites, broadcasts, and digital platforms; and (ii) Commercial and social media platforms, such as third-party platforms where NPR content may be available, for example smart speakers, social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram), and in-car platforms.
  • Emergency alerting: NPR is working to help Member stations enable text emergency alerts to appear on smart car dashboards, smart speakers, mobile phones, and tablets that are synchronized with broadcast content. The alerts, which are produced by local stations, are designed to warn users in the event of natural or man-made disasters, such as tornadoes, hurricanes, chemical spills, wildfires, and boil-water alerts.
  • Live event venues: NPR hosts live events at facilities across the country, and we work with event venues to ensure that the facilities and content are accessible for ticket holders. For information on accessible entry and seating, please contact the applicable venue. For questions about interpreters, content adaptation, or other accommodations, contact NPR directly at nprpresents@npr.org.

We are continually working to ensure an inclusive experience for all audiences, wherever and however people engage with NPR content. We encourage you to check this page regularly for the latest information. If you have feedback or questions about accessibility features, please email accessibility@npr.org.

This page was last updated 11/16/22.