Audio Books

We have a great range of books on cassette tape and CD all read by professional actors. Most of them are unabridged though we also have some shorter versions as well for those who prefer them.

There are over 12,000 adult and children's titles to choose from, both fiction and non-fiction. The titles you see on the library shelves are just a very small part of the total collection so do check the catalogue or ask library staff to do it for you.  Audio books in Asian languages can be obtained on request.

Charges may apply - see library fines and charges

New formats

Hampshire libraries are leading the way in audio books and the spoken word by piloting the latest in e-audio technology.
Pilots of the new formats – Playaway and MP3 CD – will take place in two libraries, Chandlers Ford and Lymington, with each library trialling one of the new technologies.

• Playaway- from 1 December at Chandlers Ford Library
  A pre-loaded digital audio player which can store an entire book on a pre-loaded chip, regardless of length. It comes in a compact, portable and easy-to-use devise that can fit in the pocket or hang around the neck, enabling people to enjoy their favourite books while travelling, commuting, or carrying out daily tasks. Playaway is designed with simplicity in mind, with no cassettes, CDs or downloads necessary, users can simply switch it on and listen.

• MP3 CDs - from 12 December at  Lymington Library
  Compact discs containing digital audio in MP3 file format. The discs can hold up to ten times the content of a standard CD.
  Customers can listen on MP3 compatible CD players, CD walkmans, PCs, Apple Mac and compatible DVD players or the material can be transferred onto an MP3 device, including iPods.

Both formats will be available for a four week loan for a small fee of 60p each.
There is a cross selection of titles available from bestsellers to thrillers, sagas to Richard and Judy titles.