Checker Interview - David Hinge

During his working life running a nuclear medicine department in a hospital, booklover David Hinge was known for always having a book in his hands at lunchtimes. When he found out that Calibre Audio needed volunteers to check the audiobooks recorded by narrators, it was an ideal match. Ten years and many books later, David tells us about his role as an audiobook checker:

“My main job is to check the sound quality of the narrated books and spot obvious mistakes in editing. Mostly this is about picking up on background noises or significant changes in volume settings but also mispronounced words or unfinished sentences. Most of the Calibre narrators are really accurate, but sometimes errors do slip through and it’s my job to pick them up and ensure that Calibre members receive a good quality recording that brings the book to life for them.

“We are given a month to complete one book but I often do it more quickly. I don’t have a set time of day for listening to the books, I tend to do it when I’m able to dedicate the time and concentrate fully.

“Calibre offers such a wide array of books and there really is something in the library for everyone spanning all genres and all ages. I don’t have a particular favourite from all the books I’ve read but overall I have learned so much from them and it’s widened my sphere of interest to types of books that I wouldn’t have thought of reading normally. It really is very interesting and I’m always keen to keep my mind active.

“Even though I’m retired now, I do find that I don’t read quite as many printed books as before, but I am happy to help out, even in a small way, as I know how valuable it is to Calibre members. I get a real sense of satisfaction from this and it is by no means a chore to do – I really enjoy it.

“I would encourage anyone who has time to spare and is able to give the books their full concentration to give it a try.”

1 July 2022