This episode introduces Sound Files, a podcast where we talk to audio archivists and explore historic recorded audio collections! From the joys of discovering forgotten sounds, to replaying memorable examples, to the processes of inventorying and managing a collection, we will share stories of audio preservation.

Unique, endangered audio collections are at the core of the National Recording Preservation Foundation’s work. The NRPF is a non-profit, charitable organization that offers grants that help to preserve historical audio, working in alignment with the Library of Congress. This podcast is a way for us to celebrate the projects that we have supported over the years.

Sound Files presents a series of long-form conversations and stories about the work of archiving historical audio. We’re focused on giving our listeners a deep insight into archival methodologies, why these preservation projects are so important, and the people who have made it their mission to preserve audio resources for future generations.

We will talk with expert archivists, and ask them to share their perspectives on the important work they do. What are some of the most interesting and unique sounds they’ve encountered in the collections they work with? How do they evaluate which recordings are worthy of preservation? And what motivates them to preserve important pieces of recorded sound history?

We introduce the podcast hosts, Jesse Johnston and Evan Haywood.

We’re excited to bring you the Sound Files podcast! This podcast has been produced with support from the University of Michigan School of Information, the Black Ram Treehouse, the NRPF, and the generous support of our donors. We look forward to taking you on this journey.

Credits

Show produced and directed by Jesse Johnston. Hosted and written by Jesse Johnston and Evan Haywood. Engineering, music, editing, and sound design by Evan Haywood.

Engineered and mastered at Black Ram Treehouse in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Support NRPF

Don't forget to look for us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and on the NRPF website. Donations can be made directly via https://www.recordingpreservation.org/donate/.