Abstract: A system for independently auditing a paper record of votes cast on a voting machine includes an automated reading device and a computing device. The automated reading device comprises a transport mechanism operable to move the paper record across a paper transport area, and a reader operable to read at least a portion of the paper record as it moves across the paper transport area. Preferably, the automated reading device includes a control panel that allows a user to operate the transport mechanism, and a viewing window that allows a user to view the paper record as it moves across the paper transport area. The computing device is operable to receive data from the automated reading device, process at least a portion of the data to generate vote tallies for the voting machine, and output at least a portion of the data and/or vote tallies for review by a user.