This is the first book on audio book selection and use for public and school librarians and teachers. Topics addressed include how to begin and upgrade a collection, the relative merits of complete and abridged audio books, a sample written selection policy for the audio book collection, how to evaluate production qualities of audio books, ratings of products from major producers and distributors based on a survey of AV librarians, and an annotated bibliography of more than 200 outstanding audio books. A chapter on audio in education offers a rationale and many practical suggestions for incorporating audio books in education from elementary school through adult literacy programs.

This guide begins with a glossary of terms specific to this medium. Chapter 1 traces the history and development of the audio book industry and producers, and sketches a rationale for library use. Chapter 2 focuses on the pros and cons of complete and abridged audio books in libraries. Chapter 3 offers practical advice on selection and display and evaluates the quality of tapes and packaging. Chapter 4 offers a rationale for use of audio books in education at all levels and suggests strategies for implementation. Chapter 5 gives the results in tabular form of a questionnaire sent to librarians who rated the quality of products form the major audio book producer distributors. Chapter 6 is an annotated bibliography of more than 200 outstanding titles including quotes from reviews, prices, name of reader, etc. Chapter 7 is a directory of producers/distributors with information about products, library discount, replacement policy, distribution, and the authors’ comments on their products.