If you're a book lover who is always on the go, audiobooks can be a great way to enjoy your favorite stories. Whether you're commuting to work, exercising, or doing chores around the house, audiobooks allow you to immerse yourself in a captivating story without having to sit down and read. And the best part is, there are plenty of platforms where you can listen to audiobooks for free! In this article, we will explore some of the best platforms where you can find a wide range of free audiobooks.
1. Librivox
Librivox is a popular platform that offers free audiobooks of public domain works. The platform is run by a group of volunteers who record and produce audiobooks from books that are no longer copyrighted. Librivox has a vast collection of classic literature, including works by authors like Jane Austen, Mark Twain, and Charles Dickens. The audiobooks on Librivox are narrated by volunteers from all around the world, so you'll find a variety of accents and voices to choose from. You can listen to the audiobooks directly on the Librivox website or download them for offline listening.
Features:
- Wide range of classic literature
- Volunteer narrators from around the world
- Option to listen online or download for offline listening
Access Librivox here.
2. Audible
Audible is one of the most popular platforms for audiobooks, but did you know that they also offer a selection of free audiobooks? Audible offers a free trial membership that gives you access to a limited number of audiobooks for 30 days. During the trial period, you can listen to as many audiobooks as you like without any cost. After the trial period ends, you can choose to become a paid member or cancel your membership. While the free selection on Audible may not be as extensive as their paid library, you'll still find a variety of genres and titles to choose from.
Features:
- Free trial membership for 30 days
- Access to a limited selection of free audiobooks
- Option to become a paid member for access to a larger library
Access Audible's free trial here.
3. OverDrive
OverDrive is a platform that allows you to borrow digital content, including audiobooks, from your local library. All you need is a library card to access a wide range of audiobooks for free. OverDrive works with thousands of libraries worldwide, so you'll have access to a vast collection of titles. You can borrow audiobooks for a limited period of time and listen to them using the OverDrive app on your smartphone or tablet. The best part is, there are no late fees or overdue fines!
Features:
- Access to a wide range of audiobooks through your local library
- No late fees or overdue fines
- Listen using the OverDrive app
Access OverDrive through your local library's website or download the OverDrive app from your app store.
4. Hoopla
Hoopla is another platform that allows you to borrow digital content, including audiobooks, from your local library. Like OverDrive, all you need is a library card to access a wide range of audiobooks for free. Hoopla offers a seamless user experience with its easy-to-use interface and no waiting lists for popular titles. You can borrow audiobooks for a limited period of time and listen to them using the Hoopla app on your smartphone or tablet.
Features:
- Access to a wide range of audiobooks through your local library
- No waiting lists for popular titles
- Listen using the Hoopla app
Access Hoopla through your local library's website or download the Hoopla app from your app store.
5. Loyal Books
Loyal Books, formerly known as Books Should Be Free, is a platform that offers free public domain audiobooks. The platform has a vast collection of classic literature, as well as non-fiction and children's books. Loyal Books allows you to browse audiobooks by genre, author, and popularity. You can listen to the audiobooks directly on the Loyal Books website or download them for offline listening.
Features:
- Wide range of public domain audiobooks
- Browse by genre, author, and popularity
- Option to listen online or download for offline listening
Access Loyal Books here.
Conclusion
With these platforms, you can listen to a wide range of audiobooks for free. Whether you're a fan of classic literature or prefer contemporary fiction, there is something for everyone. Librivox and Loyal Books offer a vast collection of public domain works, while Audible, OverDrive, and Hoopla allow you to borrow audiobooks from your local library. So, grab your headphones and start exploring these platforms to discover your next favorite audiobook!
