Local Library Apps
Borrow Box logo.
Free Service
Most libraries now use apps such as BorrowBox to lend out their books digitally. If someone else is already listening to the book of your choice, you can place a hold on it and be notified when it becomes available.
Library apps like BorrowBox are free to use and will work with VoiceOver and TalkBack, although the navigation can take a while to get used to.
Available on App Store and Google Play
Amazon Audible
Audible logo.
Subscription
Audible is an audiobook service provided through Amazon. You can access this service via the Audible website or via the app, where you can access podcasts and audiobooks. This app is connected to your Amazon account and has the ability to browse a vast library of books. It is especially good for very new releases or other books you might have difficulty ordering from your local library.
Audible is accessible via VoiceOver and TalkBack, and you can also link your account to your Amazon Echo (Alexa) if you have one. Subscription starts from £7.99 per month, which gets you one book of your choice, plus access to many others in the Audible Plus library. Current pricing as of 2022.
EasyReader Dolphin App
Dolphin EasyReader logo.
EasyReader is a reading app that provides a simple way to search for, download and play books on a smartphone or tablet. EasyReader provides access to a number of online libraries such as RNIB Reading Services and Calibre. You need account details to log into these different libraries. To get set up with RNIB Reading Services click here.
The Dolphin EasyReader app is functionally accessible with VoiceOver and TalkBack, but please do keep in mind that some users have described the navigation structure as not being very intuitive, and the initial setup can prove confusing. It is also worth noting that when “Large Text” is enabled in your Accessibility settings, setup of this app can be tricky as the words can overlay one another. If you would like support with setting up this app, please do let us know.
Dolphin EasyReader is available to download for free from both the App Store and Google Play to your smartphone or tablet.
RNIB Library
RNIB logo.
Free Service
All of the Talking Books at the RNIB Library are high quality, giving you the best possible reading and listening experience. You can Borrow up to six books at a time, with no limit on how many you borrow over the year. This speedy on-demand service means your books are delivered to your door free of charge.
Accessible – This can also be accessed by the Dolphin EasyReader app which is available on App Store and Google Play
Calibre Audio
Calibre Audio logo.
Free Service
Calibre is an online library with over 12,000 audiobooks which allows people with low vision to access reading. This can be streamed or downloaded via the EasyReader app or added to a memory stick.
Accessible – This can also be accessed by the Dolphin EasyReader app which is available on App Store and Google Play
Scribd
Scribd logo.
Annual Subscription
Scribd is an audio book and e book subscription service which allows you to download as many books as you like and listen when is best for you.
Accessibility – This App has limited accessibility via Voice Over – will navigate in list view but not in general/grid view. Ability to change font size and style in eBooks.
Available on App Store and Google Play
Spotify
Spotify logo.
Free and Annual Subscription
Spotify is one of many “music streaming” apps (other examples include Apple Music and Amazon Music ) which give you access to a vast library of music. Spotify is distinct from other music streaming apps in that it allows you to listen for free, but you can pay a monthly subscription of £9.99 to download music and listen to it anywhere, regardless of whether you have an internet connection. Current pricing as of 2022.
Spotify also gives you access to a wide range of podcasts (more about those below).
The app is accessible by VoiceOver and TalkBack, though it has a lot of content. For quicker, easier use, you can link your Spotify account to your Amazon Echo (Alexa), or use with Siri.
Available on App Store and Google Play
Apple Podcasts
Apple Podcasts logo.
Free and Annual Subscription
Remember those podcasts we mentioned a moment ago? If you’re wondering what on earth one of those is, a podcast could best be described as a cross between an audiobook and a radio show. Podcasts are free to listen to and are a great way to engage with your interests. You can find podcasts on almost any topic, from lifestyle to TV to cooking to true crime.
If you have an Apple device, you can listen to podcasts on the Apple Podcasts app, which is fully accessible via VoiceOver and can also be accessrd via Siri.
Available on App Store
Pocket Casts
Pocket Casts logo.
Free Service
If you have an Android device and would like to listen to podcasts, the Pocket Casts app is a good alternative to the Apple Podcast app. It works well with TalkBack, though it contains a lot of content so may feel a little overwhelming to navigate at first.
Pocket Casts is now free to use.
Available on App Store and Google Play
BBC Sounds
BBC Sounds logo.
