How to Get Free Books To Read
Let’s be honest—our TBR piles may be endless, but our book budgets? Not so much. Thankfully, being a book lover doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re a casual reader, a budding bookstagrammer, or a full-blown book influencer, there are so many ways to get free books to read—yes, free! From advanced reader copies and digital lending libraries to book swaps and subscription perks, this guide covers the best (and legit!) ways to access amazing reads without spending a cent. So grab a cup of coffee and get ready to grow your TBR—with zero guilt and zero cost.
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Best Answer: The Library
Your local library is hands-down the best way to access books for free—and it’s always open to everyone. I’ll admit, I don’t use mine as much as I should, but I love popping in now and then just to breathe in that bookish smell and wander the stacks. It brings me right back to my childhood, when I’d spend entire afternoons curled up in the library, completely lost in a story. Walking through the doors of my local Los Angeles branch feels like stepping into a time machine—in the best way.
Libby = Amazing
Libby is hands-down my favorite way to access books for free. When I started reading again in 2021, Libby was my go-to for borrowing digital copies of all the buzzy books I was seeing on social media. If you haven’t heard of it, Libby is a free app that connects to your local library’s digital collection—letting you borrow ebooks, audiobooks, and even magazines with just a few taps. You can place holds, make wishlists, and listen or read straight from your phone. Even now, with access to advanced reader copies, I still use Libby all the time—it’s just that good.
Amazon First Reads
Did you know your Amazon Prime membership comes with free books every month? Yep—Amazon First Reads is a hidden gem of a perk that lets Prime members download at least one ebook for free each month. You get early access to brand-new titles from both emerging authors and familiar favorites across a variety of genres. Not a Prime member? You can still grab the featured books at a discounted price, but that freebie makes Prime totally worth it for readers.
Enter Netgalley
NetGalley is a fantastic resource for readers who want to get early access to new releases in exchange for honest reviews. It works by allowing publishers—ranging from major houses to small presses—to share upcoming titles with reviewers. As a Member, you can request the books that interest you, and if approved, you’ll receive a digital ARC (advance reader copy) to read on your Kindle or in the NetGalley app. Audiobooks are available too, though they’re currently only playable within the app. Whether you're building your bookish platform or just love staying ahead of the latest releases, NetGalley is a must-know tool for readers. Read my full guide here!
Free on Fable
Have I mentioned how much I love Fable? I started using it to track my reading in January 2025, and honestly—I haven’t missed Goodreads one bit! Fable makes it super easy to share reviews, connect with other readers, and join book clubs right in the app. But here’s the best part: you can get free books to read directly through the Fable app. That's right! Fable gives you access to hundreds of classic novels at no cost to you. If you're a fan of the classics or just looking to expand your reading list without spending a dime, Fable is a great place to start.
Goodreads Giveaways
Another easy (and exciting) way to get free books to read is Goodreads Giveaways! Publishers and authors use the platform to give away advance copies of new and upcoming releases—no strings attached. All you have to do is enter, cross your fingers, and hope you’re one of the lucky winners. It’s a low-effort, high-reward way to discover new books without spending a dime!
Heard of Project Gutenberg?
If you’re looking for a reliable source to get free books to read, don’t skip Project Gutenberg. It’s a massive digital library offering over 70,000 free eBooks, primarily focused on classics and works in the public domain. Think Jane Austen, Mark Twain, and Frederick Douglass—all available at no cost, no strings attached. It’s perfect for readers who love timeless literature or want to explore iconic works they may have missed. You can download titles in various formats for your Kindle, tablet, or computer—making it one of the easiest ways to access high-quality books for free.
BookBub is a Must
If you love a good book bargain, BookBub is a must-have resource. This free service sends personalized daily emails with eBook deals based on your reading preferences—often featuring bestsellers, hidden gems, and even free books from major and indie authors alike. It’s one of the easiest ways to discover new titles without paying full price. Just sign up, choose your favorite genres, and start building your digital library without breaking the bank. If you're looking to get free books to read (and score major discounts), BookBub makes it effortless.
Don't Forget Little Free Libraries
One of the most delightful ways to get free books to read is by visiting a Little Free Library. These small, often hand-painted book-sharing boxes are scattered across neighborhoods and parks, offering a take-a-book, leave-a-book experience that’s built on community and trust. You never know what gems you’ll find—from beloved classics to unexpected favorites. Just be sure to pay it forward—if you take a book, try to leave one in return so others can enjoy the magic too. It’s a simple, feel-good way to share stories and discover new reads right in your own neighborhood.
Free Kindle Books
Amazon offers a surprising number of free Kindle books, making it a super accessible way to get free books to read—no subscription required. From indie gems to classic literature, there’s something for every reader. Just head to the Kindle store, sort by “Price: Low to High,” and you’ll find thousands of titles available for $0.00. Whether you’re using a Kindle device or the free Kindle app, it’s an easy way to load up your digital shelf without spending a dime.
Publisher Influencer Programs
f you share book reviews publicly—on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, or a blog—you may be eligible for publisher influencer programs that offer free books ahead of publication. While some programs require a minimum follower count, you can always start building your platform now. Learn more in this guide to publisher influencer programs!
Before You Go
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