How does the industry work? Author’s stories are converted to audio books in studios or at home, where they are recorded using professional narrators or the author’s voice. Publishers make audio books available to online retailers and libraries, for purchase or loan directly or via distributors and/or aggregators. Audio book consumers can borrow and/or purchase, from subscription based web outlets that usually require a ‘bespoke’ audio book reader. Authors benefit from royalties paid as a result of sales to libraries, or consumer purchases from online retailers or subscription services.