Calibre Audio is a UK charity that lends audiobooks to children who have a print disability. These include conditions such as visual impairment, dyslexia, autism, ADHD, physical disabilities, and other challenges that make it hard to read printed text. Calibre’s service is free for all children and young people under 25 who qualify. Schools can open accounts to provide access to eligible students.
In the UK, less than 10% of published books are available in accessible formats for print-disabled readers. This lack of access limits educational progress for children with reading disabilities. Calibre Audio addresses this by offering a growing catalogue of over 18,000 audiobooks, including more than 3,000 titles for children and young people. New books are added every week, covering fiction, non-fiction, and core titles on the national curriculum. Many of these books are not available elsewhere in audio.
Audiobooks help children keep up with learning and access the same texts as their peers. For some, listening to books is the only way to engage with classroom material. The service supports educational outcomes, vocabulary development, and reading comprehension. Listening to audiobooks can also improve focus, especially for students with attention or processing differences.
Schools use Calibre Audio to help pupils with special educational needs or disabilities. A growing number of UK schools are registered to use the service. Teachers can select books for individual children or class groups, making it easier for print-disabled pupils to take part in lessons. Audiobooks are used for independent reading, shared listening, and group discussions. This helps build confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging for children who may otherwise feel excluded.
Children can access audiobooks in several ways: streaming online, downloading to a device, or using a USB memory stick posted to their home. Calibre’s platform is designed to be easy for all users. For example, children can listen through the Dolphin EasyReader app, which works on smartphones and tablets. Those without reliable internet can get books sent by post.
Calibre Audio also supports families and schools with regular newsletters, podcasts, and reading suggestions. The membership team answers queries and helps schools set up accounts or resolve issues. All communication is available in accessible formats.
Calibre’s impact is shaped by listening to its users. The charity gathers feedback from pupils, teachers, and parents, and runs a youth board to guide future services for younger members. In the past year, Calibre has worked with major publishers to expand the number and range of available titles. The charity collaborates with literacy festivals and educational groups to promote accessible reading and raise awareness of print disability.
Access to audiobooks helps reduce barriers for children who might otherwise miss out on learning. Studies show that regular reading, including listening, supports school achievement, language skills, and mental well-being. Audiobook use in schools helps children take part in reading for pleasure, improves classroom engagement, and encourages a lifelong interest in books.
Membership is free for children under 25 in the UK. Schools can open accounts to support multiple pupils. There are no fines or charges for lost or late audiobooks for young members. The catalogue spans a wide range of genres and subjects, from classics to the latest bestsellers.
Calibre Audio relies on grants, donations, and volunteer work. Volunteers record and check audiobooks and help run reading groups for children and adults across the country. The charity also runs book groups in schools and libraries, creating opportunities for social interaction among children with print disabilities.
For children who are unable to read print, Calibre Audio provides a vital bridge to education and inclusion. By removing the barriers of print, schools can ensure that every child has the chance to enjoy books, learn, and develop alongside their peers. Calibre’s ongoing partnerships with publishers, educators, and families continue to expand access to stories and information for all children who need it.
Highly recommended for schools and parents with children who find it difficult to access print books, you can read more about Calibre on their website.
- Website.
- Information for schools.
- Sign up here.
- View Calibre’s audiobook library, including audiobook topics and genres.
- Read Calibre Audio‘s 2023-2024 impact report.
