The Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library (MBTBL) is currently looking for 1 remote volunteer narrator/reviewer(s). Remote narrator/reviewers work with library staff to create audio books, and listen to books recorded by others to identify quality issues.

The MBTBL remote volunteer program creates books (and/or magazines) on topics of Minnesota interest for library patrons and National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS) users across the United States of all ages for whom conventional print is a barrier to reading.

Processes can be completed remotely (from home, etc.) by volunteers with basic digital recording equipment and skills. For more information on requirements for narrator/reviewers, please refer to the sections below, and the Volunteer Resources available on the MBTBL website (https://education.mn.gov/MDE/fam/mbtbl/volunteer/).

Please Note

Candidates will be required to submit:
Library volunteer application
Sample of recorded audio which will be evaluated against NLS specifications
Short (15 min.) test review
We are currently unable to accept applications from individuals under 18 years of age living outside Minnesota due to legal restrictions.

Recording considerations

Recording space:
A quiet place to record.
A controlled environment (such as a soundproof studio) is recommended.
Equipment:
A mid-grade microphone or better.
A computer (Mac, Win, Lin) that meets, or exceeds guidelines for running audio recording software (Audacity), and can interface with a microphone.
Computer, software, and skill considerations

Although the library is able to provide assistance for basic procedures, remote volunteers should have the following skills:
Installing and running audio recording software (Audacity) on personal computers.
Evaluating recorded audio, identifying potential quality issues, and performing simple edits.
Connecting audio recording devices to personal computers and recording quality audio.
Troubleshooting and effectively resolving unexpected issues.
Consistency and quality considerations

Volunteers must be able to record quality audio without environmental noises.
A consistent level of quality must be maintained throughout all processes (recording, reviewing, and editing).