''AudioFile'' is a print and online magazine whose mission is to review "unabridged and abridged audiobooks, original audio programs, commentary, and dramatizations in the spoken-word format. The focus of reviews is the audio presentation, not the critique of the written material." ''AudioFile'' is published six times a year in
Portland, Maine
Portland is the largest city in the U.S. state of Maine and the seat of Cumberland County. Portland's population was 68,408 in April 2020. The Greater Portland metropolitan area is home to over half a million people, the 104th-largest metropol ...
.
Launch
The publication was launched in 1992 as a 12-page black & white newsletter containing about 50 critical reviews of
audiobooks
An audiobook (or a talking book) is a recording of a book or other work being read out loud. A reading of the complete text is described as "unabridged", while readings of shorter versions are abridgements.
Spoken audio has been available in sc ...
, focused on new releases. In 1997, it switched to a 36-page color magazine format containing about 60 reviews per issue and interviews with authors, readers, and publishers.
Online
In 2000, ''AudioFile'' launched an online database of past issues. Current issues were offered online beginning in 2001.
Earphones Awards
''AudioFile'' bestows Earphones Awards to presentations which are deemed to excel in the following criteria:
* Narrative voice and style
* Vocal characterizations
* Appropriateness for the audio format
* Enhancement of the text
SYNC Audiobooks for Teens
''AudioFile'' sponsors the SYNC Audiobooks for Teens, a "free summer program for teens 13+." The program provides subscribers with two free and complete audiobook downloads paired thematically each week during its summer season. The season varies in length from 10-16 weeks. The audiobook files are delivered via the
OverDrive Media Console
OverDrive Media Console is a proprietary, freeware application developed by OverDrive, Inc. for use with its digital distribution services for libraries, schools, and retailers. The application enables users to access audiobooks, eBooks, periodic ...
.
References
{{Reflist, 2
External links
Official website
Audiobooks
Bimonthly magazines published in the United States
Book review magazines
Literary magazines published in the United States
Magazines established in 1992
Magazines published in Maine
Mass media in Portland, Maine
1992 establishments in Maine