2009 Audies Attracts Record Number of Submissions
Raya Kuzyk -- Library Journal, 02/17/2009
- 1000 audiobooks submitted for consideration this year
- Testament to growing health of audiobook industry
- New "Distinguished Achievement in Production" category
The Audies competition drew in a record 1000 entries from audiobook publishers this year. Sponsored by the Audio Publishers Association (APA) and running since 1998, the Audies is the only awards program in the United States devoted entirely to honoring spoken-word entertainment. Last year, submissions numbered 807; in 2007, they totaled 794.
The increased participation is a testament to growing health of the audiobook industry, whose sales the APA recently estimated rose above $1 billion for 2007, a 12 percent increase over 2006. APA president Anthony Goff attributes the uptick to audio publishers feeling they have "a great shot at being rewarded for their blood, sweat, and tears," as the ceremony has honored a broad range of winners.
A new award category will join the Audiobook of the Year honor this year: Distinguished Achievement in Production, making the total number of categories 31, with four to six titles in each category. Winners will be announced on May 29 at the New-York Historical Society. Go to the APA web site for the complete list of finalists and for information on ticket availability. Here's coverage of last year's Audies.
