audiobookshelf

Audiobookshelf is a server application you run on your own computer or home server to manage and listen to your audiobook and podcast collection. Instead of paying a subscription to a streaming service, you store your own audio files and access them through Audiobookshelf from any device on your network, or from anywhere over the internet if you set it up to be publicly accessible.

The server handles all the organization and playback. It streams audio files in whatever format they are stored, tracks where each person left off in a book or podcast episode, and syncs that progress across multiple devices. Multiple family members or users can have their own accounts with different permissions. The library updates automatically when you add new files, so you do not need to trigger a manual rescan.

Beyond basic playback, the project includes tools for managing your collection. You can upload books by dragging folders directly into the web interface, search for and download podcast episodes automatically, fetch cover art and descriptions from online sources, and edit chapter information. There is also a basic reader for ebook formats including epub and PDF, and the ability to send an ebook to a Kindle device.

Accessing the server works through a web browser on any device, which also functions as a Progressive Web App you can install to your phone's home screen. Android and iOS apps in beta are available separately. The web app supports Chromecast for playing audio through a television or speaker. RSS feeds can be opened to let podcast apps or other tools subscribe to your personal library.

Running Audiobookshelf requires setting up the server software on a machine you control, pointing it at your audio files, and optionally configuring a reverse proxy if you want to reach it from outside your home network. The repository is fully open-source, including the mobile apps, and installation documentation is provided on the project's website.