When you read Erin Beck’s story about important nutrition programs closing in West Virginia, you might notice a rectangular audio player at the top of the page. If you click play, you can hear her story being read out loud to you.
This is Everlit, an AI text-to-audio tool that generates audio readings of news stories.
Every month, select stories on our website will be available for West Virginians to listen to, making our reporting more accessible.
“As tools evolve, we are meeting readers where they’re at,” said Duncan Slade, deputy managing editor. “Audio reading is an exciting way for us to continue bringing West Virginians the news they need and deserve.”
The audio version of each story can be found in the player embedded under the headline and lead image. You can listen by clicking the triangular play button and adjusting playback settings to your liking.
We’re using this particular AI tool because it’s available through our website vendor. But we’re not giving AI control over our journalism. Before publishing, we’re checking audio for any inaccuracies. If you notice an issue, please feel free to let us know in this form. Each recording also includes a disclaimer that the story is being read by an AI voice.