If you’re a book lover like me, you know the thrill of diving into a great story. But let’s be honest. Buying books can add up fast. Back in my college days, I’d scour libraries for free reads, but now, technology has made it even easier. With the right apps, you can access thousands of books without spending a dime, all from your phone or tablet. Whether you’re into classics, indie tales, or audiobooks, there’s something out there for you.

In this post, I’ve rounded up 19 of the best apps to read books for free in 2025. I’ve tested many of these myself, and I’ll share what makes each one special, along with some handy facts to help you choose. 

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1. Aldiko

Aldiko is a gem for Android users who want a clean, customizable reading experience. It supports ePub and PDF formats and offers free classics like Pride and Prejudice. I love how you can tweak the font size and background to suit your eyes. Perfect for late-night reading sessions. It also has a built-in store with free titles, though some premium books require payment.

2. Kindle

Yes, Amazon’s Kindle app offers free books! Beyond its massive paid library, you can find free classics like Moby Dick or snag promotional deals. I’ve used Kindle for years, and the Whispersync feature, syncing your progress across devices is a lifesaver when I switch from my phone to my laptop. You’ll need an Amazon account, but it’s free to download and browse.

3. Wattpad

Wattpad is a treasure trove of original stories from up-and-coming writers. With over 90 million users, it’s a community where you can read (and write) for free. I once stumbled upon a sci-fi gem here that kept me hooked for days. Something I’d never find in a bookstore. The downside? Ads can pop up unless you go premium, but the free content is worth it.

This blog post is for you if you are an Android user and looking for the best book apps for Android users

4. Kobo

Rakuten’s Kobo app gives you access to free eBooks alongside its 6-million-title store. It’s great for customizing your reading with font options and night mode. I’ve enjoyed free short stories here, and the app syncs seamlessly across devices. It’s a solid pick if you want a polished, library-like experience without the cost.

5. Barnes & Noble Nook

The Nook app from Barnes & Noble offers free eBooks, especially classics and samples. With over 4 million titles in its store, the free section is a nice bonus. I’ve used it to preview books before buying, and the interface feels smooth and intuitive. It’s perfect for readers who trust a big-name brand.

6. Scribd

Scribd isn’t completely free. It’s a subscription service. But the 30-day trial lets you explore millions of eBooks and audiobooks without paying upfront. I dove into some obscure nonfiction during my trial and loved the variety. It’s a great way to test premium content for free before committing.

7. FBReader

FBReader is a lightweight, open-source app that supports tons of formats (ePub, MOBI, you name it). It’s got a simple design and offers free classics from online catalogs. I’ve used it for quick reads on my old Android phone. It’s fast and doesn’t drain your battery. No frills, just solid reading.

8. Oodles

Oodles boasts over 50,000 free eBooks, mostly public domain works like Dracula. It’s available on iOS and Android, and I’ve found its simple interface perfect for casual reading. The catch? Limited modern titles, but for classics, it’s a winner.

9. Libby

Libby, by OverDrive, is my go-to for library lovers. With a library card, you can borrow eBooks and audiobooks for free. I’ve checked out bestsellers like The Midnight Library without leaving home. It’s easy to use, and the catalog depends on your local library’s offerings. Check yours out!

10. Project Gutenberg

Project Gutenberg’s app (and website) gives you over 70,000 free eBooks, all in the public domain. Think Great Expectations or Jane Eyre. I’ve spent hours exploring its collection. Perfect for students or history buffs. It’s basic but reliable, with no ads or fees.

11. OverDrive

OverDrive powers many library systems, letting you borrow digital books for free with a library card. It’s similar to Libby but an older school. I used it before switching to Libby, and it’s still a solid option if your library supports it. Free classics and modern titles abound!

12. Internet Archive

The Internet Archive app taps into a nonprofit digital library with millions of free books, scanned from originals. I once found a rare 19th-century novel here, pure gold for research or curiosity. It’s quirky but packed with value for avid readers.

13. Open Library

Open Library offers over 1 million free eBooks to borrow. It’s like a global library card! I’ve borrowed obscure titles here, and the simple design makes it easy to dive in. You’ll need to sign up, but it’s free.

14. ManyBooks

ManyBooks curates over 50,000 free eBooks, from classics to indie works. I love its genre filters. Great for finding romance or mystery fast. The app’s clean layout and reader reviews make it a breeze to pick your next read, all without spending a cent.

15. BookBub

BookBub isn’t a reading app, but it alerts you to free and discounted eBooks daily. I’ve scored free Kindle titles through it—like a $0 thriller that hooked me instantly. Pair it with another app on this list, and you’ve got a winning combo.

16. Bookmate

Bookmate offers a mix of free and paid books, with a focus on indie authors. I’ve enjoyed free short stories here, and the social features let you connect with other readers. It’s not as big as Wattpad, but it’s a cozy alternative for fresh reads.

17. Goodreads

Goodreads doesn’t let you read books directly, but it’s a must for discovering free titles. With millions of reviews, I’ve found hidden gems to download elsewhere. It’s free to join, and the community vibe keeps me coming back.

18. LibriVox

Love audiobooks? LibriVox offers free recordings of public domain books, read by volunteers. I’ve listened to Treasure Island while cooking. It’s a game-changer. The quality varies, but it’s all free and downloadable.

19. Hoopla

Hoopla partners with libraries to offer free eBooks, audiobooks, and more with your library card. I’ve binged comics and novels here. It’s like Libby but with extra media. Check if your library supports it!

Benefits of Reading Books on Apps

Why go digital? For starters, it’s free or nearly free with these apps. You save space (no cluttered shelves!), and many let you read offline. Studies show eBooks can boost reading habits. Pew Research found 27% of Americans read eBooks in 2023, up from 17% a decade ago. Plus, features like adjustable text and night mode make it easier on your eyes. I’ve read more since switching to apps. Convenience is key!

Conclusion

There you have it. 19 fantastic apps to read books for free in 2025. Whether you’re borrowing from libraries with Libby and Hoopla, exploring classics on Project Gutenberg, or discovering new voices on Wattpad, you’ve got options galore. I’ve loved using these apps to fuel my reading obsession without breaking the bank, and I hope you will too. Pick one, download it, and start reading today. Your next favorite story is waiting!