For many people, reading printed books isn’t just a pastime—it’s a challenge. Whether it’s due to a physical or mental health condition, a learning difference, or an illness, often the joy of reading can feel out of reach.
You might find reading or holding printed books uncomfortable, exhausting, or even impossible because of:
Audiobooks can be a wonderful alternative—bringing stories, learning, and comfort straight to your ears. But we know that for some, the cost of audiobooks or subscription services can be a barrier in itself. You may want to enjoy audiobooks but simply can’t afford to access them.
We believe that everyone deserves access to books, regardless of their circumstances.
Audiobooks can be a lifeline for people who find traditional reading challenging—but they’re often expensive or locked behind subscription services. And for those already facing health or financial challenges, that cost can be a real barrier.
That’s why we offer sponsored memberships—giving people access to our full audiobook lending service at no cost if they’re eligible and unable to afford the annual £25 fee.
These memberships are made possible thanks to the generous support of charitable trusts and companies who share our belief that stories, learning, and imagination should be available to everyone.
Whether you're living with a disability, managing a long-term condition, or supporting someone who is, our free memberships are here to help you keep reading—without the worry of cost.
Using the free Libby app, download titles to a portable device.
Access thousands of newspapers and magazines as part of membership via PressReader.
No.
When you apply for a free membership we ask for a self-declaration that our standard annual membership cost of £25 per year would be a barrier to joining. We take this on trust and don't ask for financial proof of this - there are enough forms to fill out in life!
If you are actively using your membership (this just means by borrowing audiobooks from us) your membership will roll over, year on year, unless you decide to cancel, and will remain free subject to funding.
