Simple Ways to Convert and Download Audible Audiobooks Simple Ways to Convert and Download Audible Audiobooks
Top 10 Free Sites to Download and Listen Audiobooks 2024/25 Top 10 Free Sites to Download and Listen Audiobooks 2024/25
Top 5 Free Ebook and Audiobook Websites for US Readers (2026 Guide)
Best Free Ebook and Audiobook Websites

Books don’t have to be expensive in the United States. Thanks to public libraries, nonprofit projects, and ad-free digital platforms, US readers can legally access thousands of free ebooks and audiobooks every year. The key is knowing which websites are legitimate, reliable, and still actively supported in 2026.

Read more: 10 Best Free Sites to Download Ebooks And Audiobooks

How These Platforms Were Selected

Each website on this list meets strict criteria:

  • Fully legal in the United States

  • Free access to ebooks and/or audiobooks

  • Stable service with long-term availability

  • Clear licensing (public domain or library-based)

  • Easy access on phones, tablets, and computers

1. Libby

Best overall for modern ebooks and audiobooks

Libby is the most popular digital library app in the US. It connects directly to your local public library and lets you borrow ebooks and audiobooks just like physical books. The selection often includes bestsellers, nonfiction, and popular authors.

2. Hoopla

Best for instant access without waitlists

Hoopla also works through US public libraries but differs from Libby in one key way: no waiting lists. Users can borrow a fixed number of titles per month instantly, including ebooks, audiobooks, comics, and even movies.

3. Open Library

Best for borrowing millions of digital books

Open Library aims to create a web page for every book ever published. Readers can borrow digital copies for limited periods, similar to traditional libraries. The catalog includes both classic and modern titles.

  • Website: https://openlibrary.org

  • Requires account: Yes (free)

  • Audiobooks: Limited

  • Best for: Broad research and older titles

4. LibriVox

Best for free audiobooks without restrictions

LibriVox offers free audiobooks read by volunteers. All content is in the public domain, which means no ads, no subscriptions, and no regional limits. Quality varies, but the library is extensive.

  • Website: https://librivox.org

  • Requires account: No

  • Audiobooks: Yes

  • Best for: Classic literature lovers

5. Project Gutenberg

Best for classic ebooks

Project Gutenberg is one of the oldest and most trusted free ebook platforms. It focuses entirely on public-domain works, making it perfect for students, educators, and readers of classic literature.

Comparison Table

Platform Ebook Audiobook Library Card Required Best Use Case
Libby Yes Yes Yes Modern titles
Hoopla Yes Yes Yes Instant access
Open Library Yes Limited No Large book catalog
LibriVox No Yes No Classic audiobooks
Project Gutenberg Yes Limited No Public-domain ebooks

Which Platform Should You Choose?

  • Want bestsellers and new releases? Libby

  • Hate waiting lists? Hoopla

  • Research or older books? Open Library

  • Free audiobooks forever? LibriVox

  • Offline classic reading? Project Gutenberg

Most US readers use at least two platforms together to cover all needs.

Final Thoughts

Free ebooks and audiobooks are not loopholes in the system. They’re a core part of how US libraries and nonprofits expand access to knowledge. Using these platforms keeps you safe, legal, and well-read without paying subscription fees.