Narrator Interview - Bob Rollett
Bob recorded his first book for Calibre on 1st June 2006 on tape. Now, after recording a further 331 books using a variety of different technologies, Bob is finally hanging up his microphone to enjoy his retirement. Here Bob recounts his experiences as a volunteer narrator for Calibre:
“I’ve recorded audiobooks for a number of different charities at different locations, but recording for Calibre is always something that I have been able to do at home. A corner of our third bedroom was turned into a recording area which meant that I could set everything up and wouldn’t need to reset it every time.
“I’m not the most technical person, but with the help of some really good technicians at Calibre, I’ve been able to master the various changes in technology so I could continue doing what I love.
“As an avid reader myself, particularly of poetry, the entrance hall to my house has a wall full of shelving with my favourite books which I regularly dip into to enjoy once again.
“When we’re at home, I record for an hour pretty much every morning. I’m an early riser and this is my favourite time of day to record as it fits in really well with my life. The longest book I’ve recorded for Calibre was Roald Dahl’s Collected Short Stories which took 34 hours. I love the challenge of narrating and that is what has kept me doing it for so long.
“I find being a volunteer narrator for Calibre really rewarding. Sometimes I’m shown some ‘fan’ messages from Calibre members and I also know a few Calibre members who live locally. I’ve even attended a Calibre User Group where I was complimented on one of the books I’d read which I found very moving and motivating. Having contact with Calibre members and knowing how much they get from listening to the books always acts as a reminder for why I’m happy to give my time to do this.
“Reading is so important to me and knowing that some people can’t enjoy it in the way I do has been a huge incentive to me over the years. If anyone is considering becoming a volunteer narrator I would definitely encourage them to do it.
I firmly believe in the value of Calibre’s work and I have enjoyed being part of the charity. I’ve taken every opportunity to raise funds to support them too including reading poetry at a local art gallery and churches and recording some of my poetry on CD to sell with the profits going to Calibre. Although I am retiring now, it is good to know that members will continue to enjoy the books I’ve narrated for many years to come.“
29 June 2022