Can You Get Audiobooks From Your Public Library?

Access to audiobooks from your local public library has become more convenient than ever. Whether you have a physical library card or use digital borrowing methods, there are many ways to enjoy audiobooks while supporting your community's library system.

Access to Audio Books in Public Libraries

Most public libraries offer audiobooks for borrowing, whether in physical or digital formats. The availability and variety of audiobooks can vary depending on the size and resources of the library. However, even smaller libraries often have some form of digital audiobooks available through online platforms.

Physical Audiobooks

Traditional audiobooks on CDs are still widely available in many public libraries. To borrow these, you can simply visit the library in person and request the CD. Alternatively, you can check out audiobooks in digital format using a library app installed on your device.

Digital Audiobooks

Many public libraries now offer digital audiobooks through platforms like OverDrive, Hoopla, and Libby. These libraries often use the Libby app for easier borrowing and management. Download the app to your smartphones, tablets, or computers to access a vast collection of audiobooks, e-books, and other digital media.

Options for Non-Available Audiobooks

Even if your local library does not have the specific audiobook you're looking for, there are additional methods to obtain it. Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is one such option, allowing you to request books from other libraries in your system or even from other states.

Interlibrary Loan (ILL)

Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is a service that enables you to request books and other materials from other libraries. This service is particularly useful when your local library's collection does not include the audiobook you're interested in. You can contact your local librarians to learn more about the ILL process and how to request audiobooks from other libraries.

Popular Library Apps for Audiobooks

Several popular library apps can make it easy to borrow and manage audiobooks:

Libby: A user-friendly app that works with OverDrive allows you to borrow audiobooks, e-books, and more. Hoopla: An app with a wide selection of audiobooks, as well as movies, TV shows, and music. Cloud Library: An app that provides a range of digital media, including audiobooks, e-books, and magazines.

How to Get Started

Here are the steps to get started:

Get a Library Card: If you don't already have one, sign up for a library card from your local public library. Download a Library App: Install the app (e.g., Libby, OverDrive, Hoopla) on your device. Find the Audiobook: Search for the audiobook you want to borrow within the app. Borrow and Enjoy: Once you've found the audiobook, follow the app's instructions to borrow it and start listening. Return the Audiobook: Most library apps automatically handle the return process, often through a check-in period (e.g., 21 days).

Public libraries are designed to be small neighborhoods of books, movies, and more, and audiobooks are no exception. By using the resources available, you can easily access a wide range of audiobooks to suit your reading and listening pleasure.

Finding Your Local Library’s Resources

To find out more about the audiobooks available at your local public library, visit the library's website or call them. Many libraries have a specific section for audiobooks, making it easy to navigate. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask a librarian for help. They are there to support you in making the most of your library's resources.