Bookshare is one of the fastest ways to get accessible books when standard print is a barrier. Once you are signed up and verified, you can read in a browser, or use Bookshare’s free official app on iPhone, iPad, and Android. If you prefer reading on a Windows desktop, QRead is a dedicated reading program that connects directly to Bookshare. Here is the simplest path to get from zero to reading.
Who Bookshare Is For
Bookshare is built for people who have difficulty reading standard print because of a qualifying disability. That can include difficulty seeing text, processing or comprehending printed words, or physically handling printed books.
Eligibility details: Adults, who qualifies for Bookshare
What You Will Need
An email address you can access
A little basic profile information
A plan for Proof of Disability, which you can submit after creating your account
Step 1: Create Your Account
If you’re in the United States:
If you’re outside the United States:
Step 2: Pick the Right Sign Up Option
Bookshare offers Individual accounts and Organizational accounts. Most people signing up for themselves choose Individual. Schools and agencies that want to serve multiple readers typically choose Organization.
If you are not sure which one applies: Which sign up option should I use
Step 3: Submit Proof of Disability
After you create your account, Bookshare will ask for Proof of Disability before you can access copyrighted books. Bookshare supports multiple verification routes, including reciprocal agreements with Learning Ally and the National Library Service, or using the Bookshare Proof of Disability form signed by a qualified professional.
How to submit Proof of Disability
Who can certify eligibility: Who can certify Bookshare eligibility
Step 4: Install the Bookshare Reader App
Bookshare Reader is Bookshare’s free official reading app. You can read online, or download books to read offline. It’s available on Apple devices and Android.
Install links: Bookshare Reader in the Apple App Store
Bookshare Reader on Google Play
Bookshare’s overview page: Bookshare Reader
Bookshare’s mobile walkthrough: How to use Bookshare Reader on a mobile device
Step 5: Find a Book and Start Reading
Open Bookshare Reader and sign in with your Bookshare username and password.
Search for a title, author, or keyword.
Choose Read Now to start immediately, or choose Download for offline reading.
Bookshare’s reading walkthrough: How to read Bookshare books
Reading on the Web and Desktop
If you prefer reading on your computer, you can use Bookshare Reader in a web browser and continue where you left off on mobile. For a dedicated desktop reading experience on Windows, check out QRead, which connects to Bookshare and provides a clean, screen reader-friendly interface for reading your library.
Membership Cost
As of this post, Bookshare’s annual fee for individual adult members in the United States is $79.99 per year. Bookshare is free for qualified U.S. students through federal funding. Fees outside the United States vary by country income level.
A Few Tips That Make Bookshare Easier
Start with Bookshare Reader first. It’s the lowest friction way to learn the system.
If Proof of Disability is going to take a few days, still create the account now so you’re ready when it’s processed.
If you don’t find a title, try searching by author or ISBN, and then use Bookshare’s request options when available.
FAQ
What’s the easiest way to read Bookshare books on my phone?
Use Bookshare Reader, Bookshare’s free official app. Install it from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Do I have to submit Proof of Disability right away?
You can create your account first, but you will need Proof of Disability before you can access copyrighted books. See How to submit Proof of Disability.
How much does Bookshare cost for U.S. adults?
As of this post, individual adult membership in the United States is $79.99 per year. Details are on the Bookshare membership page.
Can I read Bookshare books in another reading app instead of Bookshare Reader?
Yes. Bookshare supports a range of tools and formats. Start with What reading tools work with Bookshare and What formats are available.
Where does QRead fit in?
If you read primarily on Windows and want a dedicated reading program that can connect to Bookshare, take a look at QRead.
Conclusion
Once your account is created and your Proof of Disability is processed, Bookshare gets simple fast. Install Bookshare Reader, find one book you’re genuinely excited about, and you’ll be off and running. After that, you can explore formats and partner tools as needed.
Resources
Adults, who qualifies for Bookshare
How to submit Proof of Disability
Bookshare Reader in the Apple App Store
Bookshare Reader on Google Play
QRead: Bring Your eBook Reading to the Next Level
Qapla!
Wow, it’s like you read my mind on this one! You’ve mentioned Bookshare before, but like you said it was never very high on the priority list. But it sounds like an awesome service, and I’m definitely gonna check it out! Thanks!