Accessible Audiobooks

Photo of a woman narrating an audiobook. She wears a red sweater and glasses.

We take the printed word and make it accessible

About Accessible Audiobooks

Inclusive publishing ensures that all readers, including those with print disabilities, have equitable access to content for their education, entertainment, and participation in society.

Audiobooks are not only accessible for those living with vision loss, but as consumer preferences evolve, they are increasingly becoming the preferred format for most readers. Audiobooks are one of the fastest-growing segments of the publishing industry and the media and entertainment market, say The Globe and Mail. CNIB Beyond Print has French and English language recording studios that can transform print books into accessible audiobooks to meet the needs of all audiences.

What makes an Audiobook accessible?

For an audiobook to be truly accessible, it should include all material present in the print or ebook versions of the title. An accessible audiobook will also include descriptions of all of the visual content in the original.

Whether conveying data presented in charts, describing maps, or painting pictures with words to bring a children’s story to life, detailed image descriptions ensure audiobook readers get the full experience print readers do. Supplementary matter, such as bibliographies and notes, provide readers with the writer’s sources and points to other books that may be of interest.

Audiobook Best Practises

Read the Beyond Print Audiobook Best Practices guide, created in partnership with eBOUND Canada, for an in-depth description of accessible production techniques.

Producing an Accessible Audiobook?

Interested in having an Audiobook produced? Contact CNIB Beyond Print to discuss your project and obtain a quote.

Accessible Audiobooks FAQ

Consult our FAQ’s document.