In a previous post, we featured a program from the Indianapolis Marion County Public Library that allows library card holders to download and listen to audio books. This program is similar to the traditional library loan process, in that the books have to be returned within a specified amount of time. For individuals who want to enjoy books in their audio format, but may not have a an account with the IMCPL or may want book options beyond the library’s limited selection, Gizmo’s Freeware has compiled a list of 87 sites that offer audio books legally and free of charge on the Internet.
Gizmo’s Freeware is a non-commercial community website staffed entirely by volunteers. The site’s primary function is to help individuals select the best freeware product to fit one’s particular needs. Gizmo’s has compiled a list of 87 websites that offer free audio books that are available for online streaming or for download. The featured websites offer a wide range of genres including children’s books, science fiction books, family books, romance novels, history books, comic books, travel guides and many more.
Audio books are useful for anyone who may want to hear their favorite stories read aloud, but in the context of aid for individuals with a disability, access to audio books can be priceless. For an individual who is blind or has a visual impairment, audio books may be their only means of reading if they don’t read Braille. For an individual who has a disability that hinders their mobility or dexterity and finds it difficult to hold a book or turn the pages, an audio book can provide them with their only opportunity to enjoy literature.
This list by Gizmo’s Freeware is an extensive and invaluable resource that will provide a great number of people the chance to access their favorite books, free of charge.
To view the complete article by Gizmo and to access the links to the 87 websites, click here!