Access More Options
Libraries are my first stop, but they are not the only way I find great books. There are a few other platforms and resources I like to keep in the mix, especially when I want to sample audiobooks, discover upcoming releases, or support local bookstores while still feeding my reading habit.
Spotify Premium or Amazon Music Premium
If you already pay for Spotify Premium or Amazon Music Premium, you may have audiobook access built in and not even realize it. Spotify Premium includes 15 hours of audiobook listening each month, and Amazon Music Premium includes one free audiobook rental per month.
One thing to keep in mind with Amazon Music is that your monthly reset usually happens on your billing date, not the first of the month. It is worth checking, especially if you are trying to make the most of what is included.
NetGalley
NetGalley is a favorite resource for discovering upcoming books and audiobooks before they are officially released. It is a platform where publishers and authors share digital review copies with readers, reviewers, librarians, booksellers, and other book advocates.
If you use NetGalley, one of the best things you can do is build up your feedback ratio, which is the percentage of approved books you have reviewed. A higher ratio often helps you get approved for more titles. One easy way to improve it is to review shorter children’s books or picture books, or to start with titles in the Listen Now section.
Libro.fm
Libro.fm is a wonderful option if you want to buy audiobooks while supporting a local independent bookstore. I always love an option that helps keep more book dollars in the hands of indie booksellers.
Teachers can also sign up for a free educator account to access curated pre-release titles designed to help with school collection decisions.