Switch from Audible to Libby

What you’ll lose

Audible Originals – Some titles are exclusive to Audible. Most popular books are available through libraries, but not all.

Instant availability – Popular titles may have a waitlist. You might wait a few days or weeks for a bestseller.

Indefinite access – Audible books stay in your library as long as your account’s active. Libby loans last 14-21 days before they auto-return (you can renew if no one’s waiting).

Whispersync – No switching between Kindle ebook and Audible narration mid-sentence.

Steps

Get a library card if you don’t have one. Visit your local library’s website – many let you sign up online instantly. You’ll get a card number.

Download Libby from the App Store or Google Play. You can also use libbyapp.com in a browser.

Open Libby and tap “Find My Library.” Search for your library and enter your card number.

Browse or search for an audiobook. Tap the headphones icon to filter for audiobooks specifically.

Borrow or place a hold. If the title is available, tap “Borrow” and it starts immediately. If there’s a waitlist, tap “Place Hold” and you’ll get notified when it’s ready.

Listen. Playback happens right in the Libby app. Speed controls, sleep timer, bookmarks – it’s all there.

Cancel Audible when you’re comfortable. Go to audible.com/account, click “Cancel membership.” You keep access to books you’ve already purchased, but only through the Audible app – if you delete the app or close your Amazon account, you lose access.

Tips

You can add multiple library systems to Libby. If your local library has a small collection, check if you’re eligible for a card at a larger system nearby.

Tags like “Available Now” help you skip waitlists and find something to listen to immediately.

The “Notify Me” feature lets you know when a specific title gets added to your library’s collection.

Libby syncs your position across devices, so you can start on your phone and continue on a tablet.