Job Description

Do you have a passion for storytelling? Have a strong read-aloud voice? Be a part of the Talking Book revolution!

Overview

Audio or "Talking" book, narrators record pre-selected books about California or by California authors to bring alive the printed word to those who are blind or otherwise print-disabled.

Key Responsibilities:

• Read the assigned book in advance of the recording process.
• Prior to the first audio recording session and in consultation with narration program coordinator, review, plan, and prepare the reading material, i.e. decide which illustrations to describe, find information sources for pronunciations of names, words or symbols, and review announcements, footnotes, glossaries, etc.
• Have fun 'becoming the book' in both fiction and nonfiction works.
• Work closely with session monitor and audio reviewer to turn any constructive criticism into a consistent performance.

Qualifications:

• A love of reading and excellent command of the English language, other languages and accent expertise a plus.
• Ability to work independently and as a team.
• Professionally trained voice not required but must have good breath control and a voice which can vary in pitch.
• Willingness to audition and ability to pass the audition.
• Ability to tolerate working inside a small sound booth while a team member monitors recording from other side of large window, with the exception of remote, home narration.

Training, Coaching, and Support Provided: Following a successful audition, you will be trained to use the equipment, and informed of library audio recording standards. You will also be introduced to staff and volunteers with whom you will be working and have access to them as needed.

Location Commitment: Studio volunteer opportunities occur either on site at Braille and Talking Book Library Headquarters, 900 N Street in Sacramento across from the State Capitol. Remote home-narration is available depending on a volunteer's skills and experience. Remote narrators must furnish their own software and equipment.

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. Volunteer shifts occur during business hours, Monday-Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Length of Commitment: Time will vary with the length and complexity of the book being prepared, but an average book will usually take a few or several months. Progress is usually made at the rate of 10-30 pages per hour.

• Willingness to volunteer as either audio Book Monitor or Audio Book Reviewer 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.
• Meet talented and dedicated people who share similar interests.
• Gain experience translatable into other voiceover work.
• Leave a legacy with your voice to be archived for decades to come!

Staff Contact: btbl@library.ca.gov

Toll free: 800-952-5666

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