If you are looking for ways to stay busy while you’re stuck at home, here are ways to get free books, ebooks, audiobooks, and podcasts.
When I used to spend a lot of time in my car driving between my teaching job, home, and tutoring, I started listening to podcasts and audiobooks.
Now that I’m not driving as much, I’m listening to the podcasts and audiobooks on my walks. I find these incentives to walk longer since I want to find out what happens or hear more tips and advice from the podcasts.
With fewer things to do and fewer obligations outside of the house, more people are looking for ways to pass the time.
So, I’ve put together a list of different ways to this free media to help you pass the time, learn something new, and save some money.
Free Books, Ebooks, Audiobooks, and Podcasts
How to Get Free Books
Little Free Library
If you are lucky enough to have a Little Free Library in your neighborhood, you can score (and give) books to your neighbors. Use this map to find a Little Free Library near you.
Facebook Groups
Check your neighborhood Facebook group or free/recycle groups near you. I often see people giving away free books on our Facebook page.
PJ Library
If you are a Jewish family with kids ages 6 months to 8 years old check out the PJ Library. You can get free Jewish books, music, and more.
How to Get Free Audiobooks
Public Library
With the Overdrive App or RB Digital you can borrow eBooks, audiobooks, and videos from thousands of public libraries worldwide. You must have a library card to get the borrowed books. Some are available immediately, while others can have a waitlist.
Audible
If you’re not already a member of Audible, you can get a free 30-day trial. Prime members can choose 2 audiobooks + a selection of Audible Originals to get started. After the 30-days the price is $14.95/mo, but you can cancel anytime – including right after you sign up for the trial (and you’ll still get the 30day free trial!).
How to Get Free eBooks
Public Library
See the note under free audiobooks on how to borrow free ebooks from the library.
Free Kindle Books
Every day the list of free Kindle books changes. Here are the current free Kindle books. Be sure the price says $0.00 before you “purchase”.
You can read these free kindle books on either your Kindle or one of the many free Kindle reading apps for your phone, computer, or tablet.
Do you have book recommendations? Leave a comment in the Facebook post below.
Podcasts
I’m addicted to podcasts. I use them for entertainment, education, self-help, and more.
Apple podcasts is what I use, but there are are other podcasts apps too.
If you’re a blogger or want to be a blogger, I recommend The Blog Millionaire, The Blogger Genius Podcast, Become a Pro Blogger, and the Simple Pin Podcast.
For feel-good stories and interesting topics check out This American Life, Radiolab, Ted Radio Hour, Freakonomics, StoryCorps, and Stuff You Should Know.
If you like self-help and motivational type content, check out Super Soul Conversations, Ten Percent Happier, and Rise.
Do you have some suggestions for podcasts? Leave a comment in the Facebook post below.