''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 List of municipalities in Maine, most populous city in the U.S. state of Maine and the county seat, seat of Cumberland County, Maine, Cumberland County. Portland's population was 68,408 at the 2020 census. The Portland metropolit ...
.
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 sch ...
, 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 to 16 weeks. The audiobook files are delivered via the
OverDrive Media Console
OverDrive Media Console was 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, peri ...
.
References
{{Reflist, 2
External links
Official website
Audiobooks
Book review magazines published in the United States
Bimonthly magazines published in the United States
Magazines established in 1992
Magazines published in Maine
1992 establishments in Maine