I know that there are still audiobooks produced for the LDS audience, but relatively few compared to the current number of books being published. Somehow the attention to audiobooks that I saw then has disappeared. I recall going into some LDS bookstores at that time and seeing an entire wall full of audio materials on display. Customers could purchase classic conference talks, BYU Education Week presentations, and various kinds of works of fiction. In the late 1970s and early 80s, following on the heels of the introduction of the Sony Walkman, a burgeoning market for LDS books on tape developed, led by Covenant Communications, which pioneered the format for the LDS market. Deseret Book seems to be the only producer and, for downloads, the only place to purchase. Despite a relative revolution in audio, due to technology, LDS spoken-word audio materials are somewhat difficult to come by and not a bit part of the market. I have the impression that the market for LDS audiobooks has faded away.
I’m not sure that I know the answer to this question, so I thought I’d outline what I think I know, and ask others for their takes about what’s happened to LDS audiobooks.
