Debra Garcia y Griego, Cabinet Secretary for Department of Cultural Affairs | americansforthearts.org
Award-winning children's author Laurel Goodluck, a member of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nations and an Alaska Native Citizen of the Tsimshian Tribe, has completed a project with the New Mexico Library for the Blind and Print Disabled. She recorded four of her books to be included in the National Library Service’s audio collection for visually impaired readers.
Goodluck collaborated with Yavar Moradi, a library technician at the New Mexico Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (NM LBPD), to write culturally informed image descriptions for two of her books. These new descriptions are designed to accurately represent Native American heritage and experiences. Moradi noted that this is the first time an author has been involved in creating original image narration for illustrations.
The newly recorded titles are "Rock Your Mocs," "Too Much," "Fierce Aunties!," and "Yáadilá! Good Grief!" Jennifer McGill, Outreach Librarian for the New Mexico State Library, said, "We are immeasurably grateful for the time that Goodluck has given to make these books accessible to patrons of the National Library Service."
The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled at the Library of Congress will include these audiobooks along with two other previously recorded works by Goodluck. Earlier this year, her book "She Persisted: Deb Haaland" was selected as one of 2025’s New Mexico Great Reads by the New Mexico Center for the Book. This program highlights notable works representing New Mexico's literary contributions at national events such as the National Book Festival.
The NM LBPD is part of a national network providing audiobooks, magazines, and braille materials to people who have low vision or print disabilities. More information about their services can be found on their website at nmstatelibrary.org/lbpd/ or by calling 505-476-9770.
The New Mexico State Library operates under the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. It supports public libraries across rural communities and provides direct services to various groups including state agencies, visually impaired individuals, students, and researchers.
