Calibre services
If your sight is poor - or if you can't hold a book - you can still enjoy all the pleasure a good book brings.
Our library has the largest lending collection of audio books in the UK in open format - that's to say, you don't need special playback equipment.
That means there is something for all tastes and you can listen anywhere, at home or on the move.
What we offer
Our free, postal service includes:
- a choice of 8,000 audio books for all tastes - fiction and non-fiction - chosen specially to appeal to members
- over 1,400 books for children and young people - read more about Young Calibre here
- books read cover to cover by professional actors and broadcasters
- recordings you can play on any cassette player
- many books on digital MP3 disks
- free postage and no fines for late or lost books
- flexible lending to suit your needs
- the option to chose your books online
- a friendly, personal, quick service.
"I get lost in a good book. And really Calibre is the best in the world."
Who can join
You can become a member if you:
- can't see well enough to read ordinary books (you do not need to be registered blind or partially sighted)
- have dyslexia or a physical disability that makes it difficult to use books
- live in the UK, the Republic of Ireland or other EU country (and other countries at our discretion).
How the service works
When you become a member we ask you to tell us what kind of books you like to read (such as detective novels, biography and so on) and whether you want books on cassettes or digital MP3 disks or both. (Click here to read more about our digital service. ) Then we do the rest, making sure you are never without a book to read. We also send out regular audio newsletters.
Children and young people 16 and under can select books by educational key stages. They can also borrow books from the main library if they wish, other than x-rated ones (which are not suitable for junior members).
Anyone who prefers may choose a personal reading list using this website or our catalogues.
Calibre books are sent to members and returned free of charge. Calibre bears the postage costs for everyone, even those who are not visually impaired and do not qualify for Articles for the Blind Scheme.
If you would like to know more about how we choose and record the books, and get them to members, click here for a tour behind the scenes'.
What members say
Our service is described as 'truly life-enhancing' by many of our members. Here are a few other typical comments from some of our 20,000 members:
"The readers really bring the books to life."
"I listen when I'm ironing or in the garden."
"A fantastic choice of books."
"I can listen to a story whenever I want." (Joshua, aged 9)
"The service is so easy to use."
"No sooner do I post a book back than another two arrive."
"I enjoy the independence of changing my book selection online."
"The new MP3 disks are so convenient and the sound quality is brilliant."
"I cannot visualize life without my Calibre books. They replace not only ordinary books but newspapers, magazines, television, knitting, sewing, even many of my activities outside the house. I cannot thank you enough."
How to join
Click here to find out how to join. If you want to know more before making up your mind, look at our frequently asked questions or give us a ring on 01296 432 339.