This paper describes playback equipment provided by the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped's Talking Books program. The history of these machines is reviewed from 1933 to the present and includes activities during World War II, the introduction of flexible discs and cassettes, descriptions of a variety of machines (with photographs), and accessories. Opinions of users are summarized. The machine production process is also described from original conceptualization through determination of specifications, bid solicitation, building and testing of prototype and samples, ongoing manufacture of the product, and troubleshooting. Discussed in some detail is the contracting process for the manufacture of the machines and the inventory and maintenance processes implemented through machine-lending agencies around the country. One section looks at international cooperation in the exploration and standardization of future talking-book technology. Noted are current research efforts of the National Library Service which focus on the development of digital original mastering. Assumptions and requirements of a possible new talking-book system are listed. Some sections provide references. (DB)