Audiobooks have been increasing in popularity over the last decade – and it’s easy to understand why. In addition to being a great alternative for readers with low vision or reading difficulties, audiobooks are a fun way to make reading more portable and flexible. Popping a CD into your car’s player or connecting an eAudiobook over Bluetooth makes your commute go faster. Or you can plug your headphones into a Playaway on a lanyard while you clean house, walk the dog, or complete a craft project.
Want to try audiobooks for yourself? Read on to learn more about the options available from the Bedford Public Library!
Audiobooks on CD
This may be our most familiar audiobook medium. If you have a player available, audiobooks on CD are an easy choice! Most of our CDs are now in our adult collection and we have many titles available covering fiction, biography, and nonfiction – including the Great Courses.
Playaways
Playaways are all-in-one audiobooks! These self-contained players come pre-loaded with a specific title. All you need to do is plug in headphones, an audio cable (available from the main desk), or a speaker and hit the PLAY button. We even provide the batteries! Because of their ease of use, Playaways are becoming a popular part of our children’s, middle grade, young adult, and adult collections.
eAudiobooks
Do you prefer to listen on your phone, tablet, or computer? Bedford Public Library cardholders are able to download eAudiobooks for free from three different service – Libby (AKA Overdrive), CloudLibrary, and Hoopla. For more information, please visit the eLibrary.
Audiobooks Delivered to Your Doorstep
If you are unable to visit the Library due to health or transportation issues, you may receive library materials – including audiobooks - by mail. This free service is available to Bedford Public Library cardholders. To learn more about this program or to download an application, please visit bedfordnhlibrary.org/library-mail or call (603) 472-2300 and ask for the Reference Desk.
If you have low vision, blindness, or a disability that makes reading regular print materials difficult, you may also qualify to have materials delivered through the New Hampshire State Library’s Talking Book Library. Find more information on their website or by calling (603) 271-3429.
Do you have questions about finding audiobooks or need help placing a request? Contact the library by calling (603) 472-2300 or email reference@bedfordnh.org.