Subscription Services (Best for Large Libraries and Variety):
* Audible: The biggest player in the audiobook game, with a vast library, exclusive titles, and a generous monthly credit system.
* Libby: Free with a library card! Offers a huge collection of audiobooks and ebooks from your local library.
* Scribd: An all-you-can-listen subscription model with a wider selection than just audiobooks, including ebooks, magazines, and documents.
* Kobo Plus: Similar to Scribd, with a focus on ebooks and audiobooks.
* Google Play Books: Integrates seamlessly with your Google account and offers a large selection of audiobooks.
Other Great Options:
* Downpour: A popular site that offers a good selection of audiobooks and allows you to buy individual titles.
* hoopla: Offers free access to audiobooks, ebooks, and movies with a library card.
* OverDrive: Similar to Libby, but with a slightly different interface and catalog.
* Apple Books: Offers audiobooks alongside its impressive ebook collection.
* Amazon Audible: While technically part of Audible, you can also purchase individual audiobooks directly through Amazon.
Tips for Choosing the Best Service:
* Your Budget: Subscription services like Audible and Scribd can be costly, but offer excellent value if you listen to a lot of audiobooks.
* Library Card: Libby and hoopla are completely free with a library card.
* Specific Needs: If you only want a specific book or author, you may be better off buying it directly from Amazon, Downpour, or Apple Books.
* Free Trials: Many of these services offer free trials, so you can test them out before committing.
Note: "Books on tape" is a bit of a dated term. Nowadays, audiobooks are typically digital downloads, and you can listen to them on your phone, computer, or dedicated audiobook player.
Enjoy your listening! 🎧