Side by side
BorrowBox vs SimplyE
Both stand on audiobook apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhoneWeb
BorrowBox is a library-based borrowing option for readers and listeners who want digital titles across several formats. Availability depends on a local library, and borrowed titles are subject to fixed loan periods.
Visit BorrowBox Free plan AndroidiPhoneWeb
SimplyE offered library patrons a single place to browse and borrow e-books and supported audiobooks, with reading and accessibility adjustments. It retired in August 2025, so readers seeking an available e-reader should look elsewhere.
Visit SimplyEThe facts
| BorrowBox | SimplyE | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Web | Android, iPhone, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Not published | Free or on request |
| Plans published | None | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | borrowbox.com | librarysimplified.org |
| On audiobook apps | #13 of 32 | #17 of 32 |
BorrowBox: what it does well
- Free access through a local library service
- Offers ebooks, audiobooks, newspapers, and magazines
- Supports offline reading and listening
- Expired loans are removed without overdue fees
- Includes search, previews, reservations, and renewals
What to know first
- Requires membership in a local public library
- Borrowed content has a fixed loan period
- Access depends on the library providing the service
SimplyE: what it does well
- Combined materials from multiple listed library providers.
- Supported library-card sign-up through the app.
- Included audiobooks from Findaway and OverDrive.
- Readers could adjust font, size, and background color.
- Included OpenDyslexic and screen-reader compatibility.
What to know first
- The app retired in August 2025.
- It did not render Kindle AZW files or Adobe-encrypted PDFs.
- It did not work on e-ink devices.
Alternatives to BorrowBox Alternatives to SimplyE The whole list