OverDrive and Libby – access your local library from home

Many libraries allow their patrons to access ebooks and audiobooks on their mobile devices and e-readers using tools and apps offered by third party providers.  Among the most popular of these are OverDrive, and it’s reading app called Libby.  Using Libby to check out ebooks and audiobooks is particularly useful now that COVID-19 concerns mean that many of us are not visiting our local libraries as frequently. 

In this post I’ll share some background on OverDrive and Libby, a bit about how they work, and links to some helpful videos to get you started.

• Upper Arlington Public Library (Upper Arlington, OH) has an excellent video on “How to Borrow Kindle Books with Libby”.  The video shows how you can send individual books to your Kindle, or set your Kindle as your default reading device, as well as how to manage your library books from the Amazon website.

So, that’s a quick introduction to OverDrive and Libby.  I use Libby mostly for audiobooks, but will occasionally get an ebook to read on my Kindle.  If you have a library card and haven’t tried Libby yet, I recommend you give it a try.  If you don’t have a library card, the Libby app can help you locate and get in contact with your public library to request a card.  Using Libby is a great way to get access to your next read at no cost to you, and without even having to leave the house.