You can easily import audiobooks into the Apple Books app on your Mac using one of two straightforward methods: dragging the file directly into the app window or using the dedicated "File > Import" menu option.
Once imported, your audiobooks will be available for listening within the Books app, providing a centralized library for all your reading and listening material.
How to Import Audiobooks into Apple Books
Importing audiobooks allows you to consolidate your digital library, making it simple to access your entire collection from one place. Here are the two primary methods:
1. Drag and Drop Method
This is often the quickest way to add one or more audiobook files to your Apple Books library.
- Step 1: Locate Your Audiobook File
- Open a Finder window and navigate to where your audiobook file(s) are stored on your computer (e.g., your Downloads folder, Desktop, or an external drive).
- Step 2: Open Apple Books
- Launch the Books app on your Mac.
- Step 3: Drag the File
- Click and drag the audiobook file(s) from your Finder window directly into the open Books app window.
- Release the mouse button, and the file will begin importing.
2. Using the File > Import Menu
This method is ideal if you prefer using menu commands or need to browse for files in specific locations.
- Step 1: Open Apple Books
- Launch the Books app on your Mac.
- Step 2: Access the Import Option
- In the menu bar at the top of your screen, click File, then select Import... from the dropdown menu.
- Step 3: Select Your Audiobook
- A Finder window will appear. Navigate to the folder where your audiobook is located, for example, your Downloads folder.
- Select the audiobook file you wish to import. You can select multiple files by holding down the Command key while clicking on each file.
- Step 4: Confirm Import
- Click the Import button in the bottom-right corner of the Finder window.
Finding Your Imported Audiobooks
After importing, your audiobooks will appear under the "Audiobooks" section in the Apple Books sidebar. If you don't see them immediately, ensure you're in the correct section of your library.
Compatible Audiobook Formats
For seamless import and playback, ensure your audiobook files are in a compatible format. The Apple Books app generally supports:
- M4B: This is Apple's preferred audiobook format, which often includes chapter markers and remembers your playback position.
- MP3: A widely used audio format. While MP3s can be imported, they might not retain chapter information as M4B files do.
- AAC (M4A): Another common audio format that is generally compatible.
Important Note: The Apple Books app primarily handles DRM-free audiobooks. Audiobooks purchased from services like Audible (which use proprietary DRM) usually need to be managed directly through their respective apps or software.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Check File Format: If an audiobook isn't importing, verify its file extension (.m4b, .mp3, .m4a).
- DRM Protection: Ensure the audiobook file is not protected by Digital Rights Management (DRM) from a non-Apple source.
- Update Books App: Make sure your Apple Books app and macOS are up to date.
Summary of Import Methods
| Method | Steps | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Drag & Drop | 1. Locate file. 2. Open Books app. 3. Drag file to app window. | Quick, simple import of one or a few files. |
| File > Import | 1. Open Books app. 2. File > Import. 3. Navigate & select file. | Browsing specific folders, selecting multiple files. |
By following these steps, you can easily expand your audiobook collection within the Apple Books app and enjoy your favorite stories on demand.
