Discover the Joy of Reading with Calibre Audio
As we celebrate the National Year of Reading, it's a great opportunity to remember that reading isn't always about turning the pages of a printed book. For many people, audiobooks provide a vital way to access stories, information and the enjoyment of reading. That's where Calibre Audio comes in. Calibre Audio is a national charity dedicated to helping people who are unable to access print enjoy the benefits of reading through audiobooks.
Based in Buckinghamshire, Calibre Audio has been opening up the world of reading since 1974. The charity supports people with a wide range of print disabilities, including visual impairments, dyslexia, ADHD, autism, physical disabilities and cognitive impairments, helping ensure that everyone can enjoy stories, information and learning in a format that works for them.
What Does Calibre Audio Offer?
Calibre Audio provides access to a collection of more than 23,000 audiobooks, covering a huge range of genres and interests, including bestselling fiction, crime and mystery novels, biographies, classics, non-fiction and children's books. New titles are added regularly, giving members access to a constantly growing collection.
Members can choose how they access audiobooks:
- Stream books online through My Calibre.
- Download audiobooks through the Dolphin EasyReader app.
- Receive audiobooks by post on memory sticks.
- Access books through specialist technology designed for people with sight loss.
Calibre Audio also offers author interviews, reading recommendations and online content designed to help readers discover new books and connect with the wider reading community.
Why Audiobooks Matter
Reading for pleasure can improve wellbeing, reduce loneliness, support learning and help people stay connected to their communities. When access to printed books becomes difficult, audiobooks can provide a valuable alternative.
Calibre Audio's work is based on the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy reading, regardless of format. Through accessible audiobooks, people can continue to discover new authors, enjoy lifelong hobbies and experience the comfort, entertainment and companionship that stories provide.
Supporting the National Year of Reading
The National Year of Reading aims to encourage more people to discover the benefits and enjoyment of reading. Accessible reading is a vital part of that mission.
Audiobooks help ensure that reading is inclusive and available to everyone, whether someone is living with sight loss, dyslexia, reduced mobility, a neurological condition or any other barrier to accessing print. Services such as Calibre Audio help ensure that no one misses out on the joy of reading.
Buckinghamshire Libraries Audiobook Groups
Buckinghamshire Libraries is proud to support reading in all its forms and currently hosts audiobook groups in Aylesbury, Great Missenden, Marlow, Chesham and High Wycombe libraries. These friendly groups provide opportunities to discover new titles, share recommendations and enjoy stories together through audio.
As we mark the National Year of Reading, audiobooks offer another way for people to connect with books, stories and each other.
To find out more about Calibre Audio, including who can join, the services available and how to become a member, visit:
https://www.calibreaudio.org.uk/
You can also contact Calibre Audio directly:
- Telephone: 01296 432339
- Email: [email protected]
Whether you enjoy a printed book, an eBook or an audiobook, reading has the power to inspire, entertain and connect us. The National Year of Reading is a reminder that every reading journey is different, and organisations like Calibre Audio are helping to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to be part of it.