Libro.fm Audiobooks icon
Libro.fm Audiobooks: Ethical Listening with Local Impact

by Libro.fm

4.9
IOSBooks
Libro.fm enables audiobook purchases through independent bookstores, offering 500,000+ titles while keeping revenue local. The iOS app syncs purchases instantly and provides human support. Targets socially conscious readers.

Detailed Review

Libro.fm Audiobooks presents a distinctive model in the digital audiobook market by partnering with independent bookstores rather than operating as a direct retailer. The platform allows users to select a participating local bookstore during signup, with a portion of each purchase supporting that business. This approach positions Libro.fm as an ethical alternative to mainstream audiobook services while maintaining competitive content offerings. The application provides access to over 500,000 audiobook titles, including current bestsellers and curated bookseller recommendations. Purchases are delivered immediately to the user's library with cloud synchronization across devices. The platform maintains standard audiobook functionality including playback speed adjustment, sleep timer, and chapter navigation. Unlike subscription-based models, Libro.fm operates primarily on a purchase-per-title basis, though monthly membership options are available for regular listeners. User experience reflects thoughtful design with intuitive library organization and straightforward discovery features. The interface prioritizes ease of navigation with clear sections for new releases, bookstore recommendations, and personalized suggestions. Real-world usage patterns show particular strength in discovery, as many users report finding titles through bookstore-curated lists they wouldn't encounter on algorithm-driven platforms. The inclusion of direct human support at hello@libro.fm distinguishes the service from fully automated competitors. User feedback consistently highlights ethical considerations and support for local businesses as primary satisfaction drivers. Veda Sunshine's July 31, 2025 review notes appreciation for 'their ethical compass' and 'ACTUALLY owning the audiobooks,' while Yet another bookworm on the same date praises access to 'ton of new recs on their lists I never would have heard of otherwise.' Multiple reviews from late July 2025 mention the intuitive interface, with healthylikeamother's August 1, 2025 review specifically comparing it favorably against Audible and Hoopla for navigation ease. The platform's strongest advantage remains its unique bookstore partnership model, though this approach presents limitations in pricing competitiveness compared to subscription services. The absence of an all-you-can-listen subscription option may deter heavy listeners, while the focus on ethical consumption appeals strongly to socially conscious consumers. Ideal use cases include readers who prioritize supporting local businesses, those preferring permanent ownership over temporary access, and listeners who value human-curated recommendations over algorithmic suggestions.

Key Features

  • Independent bookstore partnerships allowing users to designate a local store that receives revenue share from each purchase
  • Permanent ownership model where users maintain access to purchased titles indefinitely without subscription requirements
  • Extensive catalog of 500,000+ titles including bestsellers and exclusive bookseller-curated recommendations
  • Instant synchronization across devices ensuring purchased audiobooks appear immediately in user libraries
  • Human customer support with direct email access to audiobook specialists for recommendations and assistance
  • Standard playback features including variable speed control, sleep timer, and chapter navigation capabilities

Why Users Love It

Supports local independent bookstores
Permanent ownership of purchases

Perfect for: Socially conscious readers who support local businesses

Screenshots

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Ranking History

Track Libro.fm Audiobooks's performance in Books over the last 30 days

Top 5
Top 10
Top 15
Below 15

Current Rank

#50

Best Rank

#50

All-time high

Average Rank

#50

30-day average

User Reviews

TravelerTeacher
Jul 14, 2025

I love everything about this app! Free books for educators, supporting local book stores, and championing causes! I love it all! I love everything about this app! Free books for educators, supporting local book stores, and championing causes!

Veda Sunshine
Aug 1, 2025

I love LIBRO.fm! I love their ethical compass, the fact I get to support indie bookstores, ACTUALLY owning the audiobooks I buy, and everything else wonderful about it! I HIGHLY recommend making theswitch from other… more evil options.. 100% worth it! You’ll probably save a bunch of money too with all the member sales they do! Amazing Audiobook App! I love LIBRO.fm! I love their ethical compass, the fact I get to support indie bookstores, ACTUALLY owning the audiobooks I buy, and everything else wonderful about it! I HIGHLY recommend making theswitch from other… more evil options.. 100% worth it! You’ll probably save a bunch of money too with all the member sales they do!

Yet another bookworm
Aug 1, 2025

Love this app! Lets me support my local indie bookstore and access a ton of new recs on their lists I never would have heard of otherwise. Go indie! Love this app! Lets me support my local indie bookstore and access a ton of new recs on their lists I never would have heard of otherwise.

Stalemilk
Jul 31, 2025

Highly recommend libro.fm and the app is great and easy to use. Support your indie Highly recommend libro.fm and the app is great and easy to use.

Grashleyd32
Jul 30, 2025

I love being able to support one of my local bookstores while also having such a variety of books to choose from. Love support local bookstore I love being able to support one of my local bookstores while also having such a variety of books to choose from.

App Details

Developer

Libro.fm

Platform

ios

Rating

4.9

Last Updated

10/10/2025