The provided source material details several organisations and initiatives that offer free Buddhist literature, educational resources, and digital archives. These resources are distributed globally, with no mention of geographic restrictions such as those specific to the United Kingdom. The materials are offered for free distribution, not for sale, and are often supported by donations. The content ranges from books by specific authors to comprehensive digital archives of Tibetan and Buddhist texts, as well as structured educational courses.
Free Distribution Books
Several sources highlight the tradition of freely distributing Buddhist teachings. One source features books authored, co-authored, and edited by Venerable Chodron, made possible by supporter generosity. These books are strictly for free distribution and are not to be sold. A specific example mentioned is a book offering "seven essential tips for cultivating happiness" based on talks given in Singapore. Translations of these books are sometimes freely available on the English book pages, while other translations are available for purchase.
Another source, from the Amitabha Buddhist Society of Central Florida, states that its books, available through WhatBuddhaTaught.org, are for free distribution and not for sale. All donations received are used for printing more books, covering shipping costs, or purchasing Buddhist items from overseas. The source emphasises respect and care for the books, suggesting they be distributed further if no longer needed.
Digital Archives and Online Libraries
The Buddhist Digital Resource Center (BDRC) is described as the largest online archive of Tibetan and Buddhist texts in the world. It uses state-of-the-art technology for digital preservation and provides free access to this literature via an online library, a mobile app, and hard drive distribution programmes. This initiative is presented as a leader in the field, working with local partners to offer open access to the global community. The BDRC is supported by the Khyentse Foundation, a non-profit established in 2001 to support all traditions of Buddhist study and practice.
DharmaNet's own in-house databases and collections are also mentioned, providing links to online Buddhist resources. One specific resource listed is the Tsujiki Hongwanji, which offers programs with Dharma talks and introductions to Jodo Shinshu and Tsukiji Hongwanji in English.
Educational Programmes and Resources
Beyond books and archives, structured educational programmes are available. The Buddhist Churches of America (BCA) offers a Jodo Shinshu Correspondence Course. This is a 2-year, computer-based course that allows students to gain basic knowledge of Jodo Shinshu and Buddhism. Students deepen their understanding through correspondence with instructors and reference materials such as video lectures, Dharma talks, and sutra chanting. The course also includes a chat room and message board for open discussion, and an in-person workshop every summer to build community.
Additionally, the BCA provides a collection of informational pamphlets to help understand practices, history, and views on current issues through the lens of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. These pamphlets are available for download. The Collected Works of Shinran is another resource mentioned, presenting Shinran's doctrinal writings in translations that are described as consistent in method, lucid, and reliable.
Organisational Context and Philosophy
The sources provide context about the organisations behind these resources. What Buddha Taught is described as a Buddhism Education Resource organised by the Amitabha Buddhist Society of Central Florida. Its mission is to promote Buddhist teachings, which are characterised as an education of wisdom broader than modern universities, encompassing all phenomena and principles. The ultimate goal is to inspire individuals to uncover their innate wisdom and end suffering.
The Buddhist Digital Resource Center is a leader in digital preservation, and the Khyentse Foundation supports Buddhist study and practice globally. The Buddhist Churches of America provides resources tailored to its Jodo Shinshu tradition. These organisations collectively operate on the principle of free distribution, often funded by donations, to make Buddhist teachings accessible worldwide.