In the fast-paced modern world, people often struggle to find time to immerse themselves in books. Audiobooks offer a convenient way to enjoy literature, learning, and entertainment during commutes, workouts, chores, or even while relaxing before bed. However, the cost of premium audiobook services can deter many. Thankfully, there are a variety of free apps and websites that allow users to listen to audiobooks without spending a dime. Here’s a guide to some of the best platforms and methods to start listening for free.
1. Public Library Apps
Public libraries have embraced technology and are now providing their members with access to extensive collections of audiobooks through apps. These services are entirely free for library cardholders.
- Libby (by OverDrive): Libby is a user-friendly app that connects with local libraries. It provides access to thousands of audiobooks and eBooks. The app allows you to download or stream the titles, and all you need is a valid library card.
- Hoopla: Another popular platform, Hoopla offers audiobooks, movies, music, and more. It’s available in partnered libraries and supports instant streaming without waitlists.
Both Libby and Hoopla are available for iOS and Android, making them accessible to a wide audience. They’re ideal for those who want to borrow audiobooks in the same way they’d check out a physical book.
2. Librivox
Librivox is a nonprofit platform that offers free audiobooks from the public domain. Volunteers from around the world record readings of classic literature and make them freely available to the public.
Though the selection is limited to works no longer under copyright, the catalog includes thousands of timeless titles by authors like Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, and more. The quality of narration can vary, but the dedication of the volunteers brings a charming uniqueness to the experience.
Users can stream books directly or download them in MP3 format, and the Librivox app simplifies the process for mobile listeners.
3. Spotify and YouTube
It might surprise some, but Spotify isn’t just for music and podcasts—it also hosts a selection of free audiobooks. Numerous public domain books and some independently produced modern titles are available. Simply searching for terms like “audiobook” or a specific title can yield good results.
Likewise, YouTube has a massive trove of audiobooks uploaded by creators and publishers. Full-length chapters or entire books are read aloud, often with background music or visuals to enhance the experience. However, users should verify that the content respects copyright laws.
4. Storynory (for Kids and Beginners)
Storynory is a dedicated site and app for children’s audiobooks and stories. It provides free streaming of fairy tales, classic children’s literature, and original educational content. The narrators speak clearly and at a slower pace, making it useful not just for kids, but also for people learning English as a second language.
The platform is ad-supported, which helps keep it free. Parents, teachers, and language learners will find Storynory a fun and enriching resource.
5. Project Gutenberg
Known mainly for its extensive library of eBooks, Project Gutenberg also offers audiobooks. Some are computer-generated, while others are human-read. As with Librivox, the collection is comprised of public domain works, ensuring legality and accessibility.
While its interface isn’t as sleek as modern streaming apps, the sheer volume and historical value of its library make it a treasure trove for literature enthusiasts.
6. Audible’s Free Audiobook Options
Audible, an Amazon company, is best known for its premium audiobook service. But it also offers:
- Free 30-day trials that include one or two audiobooks.
- A dedicated section titled Audible Stories (launched during COVID-19), which provides access to hundreds of audiobooks for children, teens, and adults for free.
Audible’s trial is especially useful for new users who want to test the waters without immediately committing to a paid subscription.
7. Open Culture
Open Culture is a fantastic educational website that aggregates high-quality cultural and educational media. It maintains a list of over 1,000 free audiobooks, with highlights including Tolstoy, Fitzgerald, and Kafka.
The site often links out to sources like YouTube, iTunes, or Internet Archive but organizes its content beautifully by genre and author. It’s great for users who want curated, well-organized access to classic literature in audio form.
8. Loyal Books
Formerly known as Books Should Be Free, Loyal Books integrates audiobooks and eBooks from the public domain and makes them easy to browse. Every title available here is completely legal to download or stream, and most are sourced from Librivox or Project Gutenberg.
The site provides ratings, reviews, and sort-by-genre features, making navigation a breeze for users seeking something specific.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Free Audiobook Services
- Check multiple platforms: Different apps and sites offer varied selections. Look around to find the right version, narrator, or format.
- Use library tools: If your local library doesn’t offer Hoopla or Libby, find one nearby that does. Many libraries allow non-residents to sign up for a card for a small fee.
- Adjust listening speed: Most apps allow users to speed up or slow down narration, making long books easier to consume.
- Download for offline listening: For uninterrupted playback during travel or workouts, download books to your device.
Conclusion
There’s no need to let a tight budget prevent hours of enjoyable and educational listening. With an abundance of free audiobooks across various platforms, anyone can enjoy the pleasures of storytelling, learning, and literary exploration without spending a cent. Whether you prefer the dusty classics of Victorian literature or the playful rhymes of a bedtime tale for kids, there’s a free audiobook app or site waiting for you.
FAQ
- Is it legal to listen to free audiobooks online?
- Yes, as long as the content is in the public domain or offered officially by the rights holders, listening to free audiobooks is completely legal.
- Do I need a library card for Libby or Hoopla?
- Yes, both apps require a valid library card connected to a participating public library. Some libraries allow online registration for new members.
- Can I use these apps offline?
- Yes, most audiobook apps like Libby, Hoopla, Audible, and Librivox allow you to download books for offline listening.
- Are there any completely ad-free services?
- Some services like Libby and Librivox are ad-free. Others, like Spotify and YouTube, may contain ads unless you use premium versions.
- Which platform offers the best-quality narration?
- Audible is known for high-quality, professional narration. Other services like Libby also feature professional readers, especially for modern titles available through libraries.
