Libraries have now caught onto the value of audio books and are embracing the technology.  They have audio book rental services so clients can download audio books from the comfort of their homes or offices.  Visit the website of your local library or give them a call to enquire if they offer this service or not. If they don't, search the Internet for libraries that do.

Some stores such as TalkingBooksDirect.com offer a selection of completely free audiobooks.  These are other stores that don't offer 100% free books but do provide give free excerpts – from a few minutes to more than 30 minutes.

There are audio book rental websites that allow customers to “sample” some of their audio books for free, so that they can get a “feel” of the benefits of being members.  One of the most popular of these services is Jiggerbug.com. They offer completely free trials of some of their audio book titles for members to download and even burn to their CDs.

Also, you can check out Gutenberg.org for free computer generated audio books.  Some of them are well worth downloading and listening to.

There is therefore no need to pay for audio books after all!