AudioShelf vs Libby
When the assignment starts today, the audiobook should too.
Libby is valuable for borrowing ebooks and audiobooks from your public library—when your library owns the title and copies are available. AudioShelf makes public-domain classics ready to explore without a library card, checkout period, or waitlist. Libby helps you borrow what your library owns. AudioShelf helps you explore what belongs to everyone.
Libby is a valuable free service for borrowing ebooks and audiobooks from your public library. But availability depends on your library’s collection, and popular titles may require a hold. AudioShelf makes available public-domain classics ready to explore without a library card, checkout period, or waitlist.
At a glance
| Feature | AudioShelf | Libby |
|---|---|---|
| Modern library books and newer bestsellers | — | ✓ |
| Free borrowing through your local library | — | ✓ |
| Immediately available classics | ✓ | — |
| No holds, due dates, or automatic returns | ✓ | — |
| Homeschool lists and literature assignments | ✓ | — |
| Multiple recordings of familiar works | ✓ | — |
| Browse without a library card | ✓ | — |
| Public-domain works open to everyone | ✓ | — |
Choose Libby for
- Modern library books
- Newer bestsellers
- Free borrowing through your local library
Choose AudioShelf for
- Immediately available classics
- No holds, due dates, or automatic returns
- Homeschool reading lists and literature assignments
- Multiple recordings of familiar works
- Browsing without connecting a library card
Libby helps you borrow what your library owns. AudioShelf helps you explore what belongs to everyone.