Audio Book Reviewer

Love to read a good book? Are you a natural wordsmith with an ear for details? Join us as a Talking Book behind-the-scenes reviewer mastermind!

Overview

As part of the California Braille and Talking Book Library studio team, the Reviewer examines audio or "Talking Book" recorded audio files in process over the course of a book's narration cycle, noting pronunciation, text omissions, other hiccups, and other technical errors. Delivers notes to original narration team for revisions to audio books about California or by California authors created for the blind otherwise print disabled.

Key Responsibilities

• Audibly review digital book file from start to finish and/or in sections, referring to print copy for guidance.
• Maintain error log for use by narration team.
• Familiarize oneself with library audio production standards to ensure quality.
• Provide constructive criticism through invaluable feedback for improvements to recording by narration team.

Qualifications:

• A love of reading and excellent command of the English language.
• Ability to work independently and as a team.
• Able to work on a computer and learn how to use specific software; Knowledge of how digital audio recording works is a plus, but not required.

Training and Support Provided: You will be trained to use the equipment and informed of library standards. You will also be introduced to staff and volunteers with whom you will be working and have access to them as needed.

Location of Commitment: Initially all reviewer volunteer opportunities occur on site at BTBL Headquarters, 900 N Street in Sacramento across from the State Capitol. Remote home-reviewing is available depending on a volunteer's skills and experience.

Time Commitment: 2-3 hours or more per week, or 4-8 hours or more per month through completion of at least one Talking Book. On-site library volunteer shifts occur during business hours, Monday-Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Length of Commitment: For consistency, reviewer should complete entire book once begun. Pace of book completion will depend on the pace of the book narration team (progress is usually made by the team at the rate of 10-30 pages per hour). Time will vary with the length and complexity of the book being prepared, but average book will usually take a few to several months. Reviewer may have more than one book project going at one time.

• Willingness to volunteer as either audio Book Narrator or Audio Book Monitor at various times is optional but appreciated.
• Reimbursement of parking costs for on-site BTBL volunteer shifts available upon request.

Benefits of Volunteering:

• Enhance the collection of accessible books for Californians unable to read conventional print in California and nationwide.
• Opportunity to learn or increase computer skills.
• Meet talented and dedicated people who share similar interests.
• Gain translatable audio production experience.

Staff Contact: btbl@library.ca.gov

Toll free: 800-952-5666