The author is the administrative assistant for the International Association of Audio Information Services (IAAIS) and outreach coordinator/listener liaison for the Audio-Reader Network in Lawrence, Kan. IAAIS commentaries are featured regularly atwww.radioworld.com.
Like many organizations, the International Association of Audio Information Services has an annual conference. This year’s event will take place in Princeton, N.J., June 2–4 at the Westin Forrestal Village Hotel. Our host service is the New Jersey State Library Talking Book and Braille Center. Each year we struggle to grow the event along with attracting new vendors, sponsors and attendees.
What other organizations would benefit from this conference?
For instance, audio information services are part radio. We have presentations on podcasting, voice training for news readers and creating radio dramas.
Audio information services are nonprofits. We have workshops on crowdfunding, grant funding for special needs programming and rejuvenating a board. Audio information services use volunteers so we have workshops on how to partner with community groups, leadership development and social media.
Entertainment and fun is also on the agenda. We will tour the host service, New Jersey State Library Talking Book and Braille Center; view a video and live action dramatic presentation called “Emily Roebling: the Woman Who Saved the Brooklyn Bridge”; hear from a local historian and play with assistive technology provided by the CBVI Regional Technology Assistance Center. We are also expecting journalist Alan Wolper, currently heard on WBGO(FM) in Newark, N.J., and Tommy Edison, The Blind Film Critic.
So who should attend? Radio station staff and volunteers (especially LPFM and community radio), managers and directors of nonprofit organizations, individuals who are experiencing vision loss and community volunteers would all benefit.
Vendors of interest would include radio equipment manufacturers, automation systems, customer relationship management software and broadcast equipment suppliers. Help us spread the word about this opportunity for continuing education. Rates are reasonable $300 for the entire event; $125 for daily reservations. This includes meals and access to all workshops and events. An exhibit table is $525 and sponsorships start at $1,000. For more information on the IAAIS conference call (800) 280-5325 or visit the conference website.
