Love reading but don’t want to break the law (or the bank)? Fortunately, there are many websites where you can read books online for free or download them legally without piracy. Whether you’re into fiction, non‑fiction, textbooks, or audiobooks, these platforms offer a vast range of genres — all while staying completely legit. Below are 13 of the best legal book sites for every kind of reader.

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1. Project Gutenberg

Project Gutenberg is one of the oldest and most trusted sources for free ebooks. Hosting over 70,000 public domain titles, it includes classics like Jane Austen and Mark Twain. You can read online or download in EPUB, Kindle, or plain text — no account needed. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

2. Open Library

From the Internet Archive, Open Library allows you to “borrow” digital books for free. With over 3 million ebooks, the catalog covers classics, academic works, and even modern bestsellers — just create a free account to borrow digitally. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

3. Google Books

Google Books provides previews and full-text access to millions of titles. Use the filter “Free Google eBooks” to find legally readable content, including many public-domain classics.

4. Amazon Kindle Store (Free Section)

Amazon’s Kindle Store offers thousands of free ebooks under “Top 100 Free.” You’ll need a Kindle device or the free Kindle app but can access thousands of books legally at no cost.

5. Libby (by OverDrive)

Libby connects to your local library’s digital collection. Using your library card, you can borrow ebooks and audiobooks without fees — perfect for tablet, phone, or e-reader usage.

6. Internet Archive

The Internet Archive offers over 35 million books, including rare and out-of-print titles. You can borrow or download legally, making it a treasure trove for researchers and casual readers.

7. ManyBooks

ManyBooks features over 50,000 free ebooks, with an easy-to-use interface across genres like sci-fi, romance, and mystery. Available in EPUB, PDF, Kindle, and more.

8. BookBub

BookBub curates deals from Amazon, Kobo, and Barnes & Noble. After you sign up, you’ll get daily alerts for free and discounted ebooks tailored to your preferences.

9. Smashwords

Smashwords focuses on indie authors, offering a wide range of free and paid DRM-free ebooks. Discover new voices and self-published gems in genres you won’t find elsewhere.

10. Feedbooks (Public Domain)

Feedbooks curates well-formatted public-domain titles in literature, philosophy, and history. Downloads are available in EPUB, PDF, and Kindle formats — ideal for research and enjoyment.

11. Free-Ebooks.net

Free-Ebooks.net provides both fiction and non-fiction titles from indie authors. You can read online for free or register for downloads; genres include business, health, fantasy, and education.

12. PDFBooksWorld

PDFBooksWorld specializes in creating high-quality PDF editions of public-domain classics. The typography and layout suit e-readers and tablets perfectly.

13. Scribd (Free Trial)

Scribd offers a 30-day free trial of its unlimited reading service covering books, audiobooks, and magazines. Cancel any time, or continue for a monthly subscription.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need piracy to access millions of great books. These 13 legal reading platforms offer everything from public-domain classics to indie titles and audiobooks — all legally and often free. Try a few now, explore different genres, and read with peace of mind.