Why Audiobooks Benefit People with Dyslexia
Plus Library Apps that offer free audiobooks.
AI-generated audio has been added for accessibility.
I love listening to audiobooks. They offer all the joy of being read to as a child, and a good narrator can really bring the characters to life. I also love that I can listen while doing other things because this allows me to enjoy far more books than if I were reading them myself. I use a library app called Borrowbox, but I have listed below some other apps that offer audiobooks, too. Make sure to check out which one your local library uses.
Why Audiobooks Benefit People with Dyslexia
Enhanced Comprehension and Engagement: Many dyslexic individuals struggle with decoding words and sentences, which can hinder comprehension and enjoyment of the text. Audiobooks eliminate these decoding challenges, allowing listeners to focus on the narrative and concepts. By hearing words pronounced correctly and in context, dyslexic listeners can improve vocabulary and comprehension in a more natural, stress-free way.
Building Language Skills: Audiobooks expose listeners to the rhythm, tone, and inflection of language. This auditory experience can help dyslexic individuals improve their own language and pronunciation skills over time. It can also aid in recognizing patterns in word sounds, which can be useful in strengthening phonological awareness.
Reducing Fatigue and Boosting Confidence: Reading printed text can be tiring and frustrating for dyslexic people, especially for long periods. Listening to audiobooks allows them to enjoy books without the physical strain of reading, reducing fatigue and increasing the likelihood of finishing and understanding a book. This boost in confidence can encourage a lifelong love of reading.
Promoting Visualization and Story Retention: Listening to a story encourages mental visualization and helps listeners retain the material better. This benefit is particularly important for dyslexic individuals, as it reinforces memory and understanding of the story without the added burden of text processing.
Several apps provide free access to audiobooks, offering an affordable way for dyslexic individuals to explore a wide range of titles. Here are some of the top options:
1. Libby by OverDrive
Libby is one of the most popular library apps available. Users can borrow audiobooks (as well as eBooks and magazines) for free with a valid library card. The app is user-friendly, with options to adjust playback speed and easily navigate chapters, which can make the listening experience more comfortable. Libby’s extensive catalogue covers a variety of genres, from fiction and non-fiction to children’s literature, providing options for listeners of all ages.
2. Borrowbox
Borrowbox allows users to borrow audiobooks and eBooks. Like Libby, it’s accessible with a library card, and its catalogue includes popular audiobooks across many genres. It is especially beneficial for dyslexic listeners as most items have no waitlists, allowing immediate access to titles. The app also supports offline listening, which is convenient for listening anywhere.
3. RNIB
The RNIB service is an excellent resource specifically for people with print disabilities. It provides free access to a vast collection of audiobooks and magazines.
4. Bookshare
Bookshare is an accessible online library with audiobooks available for people with disabilities that prevent them from reading standard print, including dyslexia. The library includes textbooks, literature, and leisure reading materials. Unlike most other options, Bookshare offers customisable audio playback, such as voice and speed options, and it even has synchronized highlighting, which can be beneficial for learning.
5. LibriVox
LibriVox provides free public-domain audiobooks, recorded by volunteers, making it a great resource for dyslexic individuals seeking classics and older works. The app’s catalogue isn’t as extensive as others in terms of contemporary titles, but it offers a valuable selection of literary classics in audio format that’s accessible and free to all.
Audiobooks allow everyone, regardless of reading ability, to enjoy literature, enhance comprehension, and build confidence, ensuring that the joy of reading is available to all.
CLICK HERE to discover my audiobook reviews.
I don’t have issues with reading print all the time, but I suffer from a chronic illness that means sometimes I have to switch between the type of way I read so as to not overload one of my senses. BorrowBox has been absolutely brilliant for this so come an evening, I can listen to a book and give my eyes (and hands!) a rest.