There are numerous benefits to using audiobooks. Struggling readers can listen to an audiobook while reading along in the print version, to improve their reading. Audiobooks also help increase children’s vocabulary and introduce them to books above their reading level. Professionally narrated audiobooks help the story come alive. They are also an excellent way to pass the time during a long road trip. Additionally, audiobooks provide an alternative for families wanting to limit television and other screen-based entertainment. Some children even enjoy listening to audiobooks while they fall asleep.
But aren’t audiobooks expensive?
No, they don’t have to be! Here are some of the many places you can find free audiobooks online:
LibriVox
The books on LibriVox have expired copyrights and are now available in the public domain. They are recorded by volunteers. You may stream the books online or download to your computer or other devices. There’s a wide variety of books for both children and adults.
Lit2Go
At Lit2Go, users may listen to audio recordings of classic literature. The website also provides each book in ebook format.
Loyal Books
All audiobooks at Loyal Books are in the public domain and may be downloaded or streamed for free. The books on this website are obtained through a variety of sources, but most are digitized by Gutenberg.org and recorded by Librivox.org. They offer a wide selection of books for children and adults.
My Audio School
My Audio School was originally created as an aid for dyslexic children but will be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. Most books can either be streamed online or downloaded. While a paid membership is required to access the entirety of their collection, they also offer a large number of books for free.
Online Audio Stories
You can stream children’s audiobooks and short stories at Online Audio Stories. Text is also included for each book and story.
Open Culture
Open Culture offers a large selection of audiobooks for people of all ages. The audiobooks are made available from a variety of sources and come in many different formats.
Storyline Online
Storyline Online features celebrities reading popular children’s books in YouTube videos. A free teacher’s guide is also provided for each book.
Storynory
The children’s stories at Storynory can be streamed online or downloaded to your device. All of the stories are professionally recorded and come with a text version, as well.
Public Libraries
Your local public library probably offers books on CD. They also likely offer audiobooks that may be borrowed online for free through services like Overdrive or Hoopla.
For Children with Disabilities
Bookshare.com offers free memberships to people with dyslexia, learning disabilities, visual impairments, physical disabilities, and other reading barriers.
Also, the National Library Service offers free talking books and braille materials to those who are unable to read or use print materials due to visual impairment, physical limitations, or reading disabilities.
I hope this post helps you find some amazing free audiobooks for your family to enjoy!
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Note: This post was originally published on December 12, 2018 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
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