At Libro.fm, we are dedicated to making reading accessible for as many book lovers as possible. Everyone has a different experience of ability, and everyone deserves to have the tools they need to get the most out of reading.
Audiobooks are a great way to reach a wider audience of readers, making reading easier for people with visual impairment, learning differences, physical disabilities, and more.
We continuously update our technology to be accessible for all readers, often performing audits and seeking user feedback. And our definition and understanding of accessibility continues to grow and evolve.
After receiving an inquiry about additional technology we recommend, we reached out to our readers with a question…
“What tools do you use to make reading accessible?”
We’ve compiled their answers on assistive technology for reading below. We hope their replies are helpful for all readers!
Digital Solutions for Easier Reading: Apps and Software
Audiobooks for Every Listener: How Libro.fm Transforms Your Reading
We’re so happy that many of you find our apps (iOS and Android) and web player to be helpful! Here are some of the ways that our readers use audiobooks to make reading more accessible.
“Audiobooks for my anxiety (quiets other noise).”
Learn more about the mental and physical health benefits of reading on audio!
“Audiobooks with a sleep timer.”
“Playback speed modifiers on all my audiobooks.”
“ADHD makes my eyes roam so I listen to books while reading physical copy.”
Our apps also offer Dark Mode and horizontal rotation, as well as Dynamic Type (iOS), TalkBack (Android), and many more features that aim to make the app as accessible as possible.
E-Readers and Adjustable Displays: Customize Your Visual Experience
E-readers and text modifications are a great resource for a wide range of ability aid. Explore our suggestions for eBooks.
“E-readers with large font size.”
“Dyslexia font.“
“Have Siri read my arcs or e-books not avail on 🎧 (speak screen in accessibility settings).”
“Graphic novels on iPad (magnification).”
“Speech to text.”
Physical Aids & Ergonomic Solutions for Comfortable Reading
Everyone deserves a comfy and engaging reading experience. Here are some of our readers’ suggestions to help with physical barriers.
“A tablet stand and clicker to read from my tablet in bed.”
“90 degree glasses so I don’t have to strain my neck and shoulders holding up a book while I’m laying down.”
“[An e-reader] remote.”
“[E-readers are] easier for my hands to hold when I have joint pain from my Lupus.”
“Migraine glasses and Irlen filters.”
“My AirPods!!!!”
“Grips to help hold e-reader. Gooseneck [book holder] and page turner.”
“Lap pads and book holders.”
“My cochlear implants!”
Reading aids are for everyone!
Many people struggle with reading for a variety of reasons.
Whether it’s a matter of comprehension, pace, or mental or physical disabilities, we hope this list helps enhance your understanding of the spectrum of ability and provides access to some amazing new resources!