Libby, by OverDrive - Free library ebooks

Acclaimed as an outstanding app for libraries, Libby provides access to countless ebooks and audiobooks offered by local libraries worldwide. You can borrow these resources instantly and at no cost with a library card. 

Key features include:

- Exploring your library's extensive collection of digital books, ranging from timeless classics to New York Times bestsellers

- Borrowing and enjoying ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines

- Downloading titles for offline reading or streaming them for storage conservation

- Sending ebooks to your Kindle (exclusive to U.S. libraries)

- Listening to audiobooks using Android Auto

- Utilizing tags to curate personalized reading lists

- Syncing your reading progress seamlessly across all your devices

What is Libby?

Libby is a free app where you can enjoy ebooks, digital audiobooks, and magazines from your public library. You can stream titles with Wi-Fi or mobile data, or download them for offline use and read anytime, anywhere. All you need to get started is a library card.

What people are saying

I LOVE reading and anywhere!

“I love being able to read or listen to books from my local library but it also allows for books too expensive through Amazon, that I can read through this ereader. Well done. I LOVE reading and anywhere I can read as freely as I enjoy it; whether that’s 5 books a day or 150 a month… An e-reader be it Libby or my Kindle or both… they allow me to read my fill regardless of my inability to always get to the library or to search stacks at bookstores. I can be comfortable in my own place.”

- Margaret M., Google Play™ Store review

Re-connecting back to the Library

"I feel like I just re-found my love for the library again. This app helps re-connect with these amazing and free resources back inot reading books but also magazines. I know the library is free but I didn't know what an array they have for electronic resources. It is great and helpful."

- J-Phx, Apple App Store review

Free Audiobooks Rock!

"I am dyslexic and old enough that is was never diagnosed in school. This is such a simple way for me to enjoy books I would never be able to read.I have been listening to the CDs for a long time. But having it on my phone allows me to listen whenever and wherever. Also this is one of the more efficient apps I have come across. Thank you Libby."

- Brezzy307, Apple App Store review

OverDrive has hit it out the park

"This app is intuitive, helpful, and like having a librarian in my pocket. While I will take any opportunity to visit a brick and mortar library, it isn't always possible. This app gives me all the bok love I need when I am away from a real library. Keep up the great work."

- Shira M, Google Play

Getting started with Libby

With Libby, you can enjoy free ebooks, digital audiobooks, and magazines from your library. All you need is a library card.

Step 1

Download or open Libby on your device:

iOS devices: Apple App Store

Android devices: Google Play

Amazon Fire tablets: Amazon Appstore

Windows, Mac, and Chromebooks: the website

Step 2

In Libby, follow the prompts to find your library and sign in with a library card.

Step 3

Find something to borrow:

    Tap Search to find a specific title, author, series, etc.

    Tap Library to browse your library's catalog. You'll find helpful filters, catalog guides, campaigns, and curated lists created by your library.

    Your selection will vary based on your library, since each library chooses what titles and formats to offer in Libby.

Tip: Not ready to read a title, but want to keep track of it? 

Step 4

Your loans and magazines appear on your Shelf. By default, book and audiobook loans are automatically downloaded for offline access when you're connected to Wi-Fi, but magazines are not.

On your Shelf:

    Tap Loans to read or manage your borrowed titles.

    Tap Holds to see your place in line and manage your holds.

    Tap Timeline to see your Libby activity history.

    Tap Notices to see in-app notifications for your loans and holds. Choose what you want to be notified about under Menu > Notifications.

    Tap a magazine on your Magazine Rack to start reading.

Have more questions?

1. Is Libby free?

Yes, Libby is completely free. Installation is free, and there are no subscription fees, no in-app purchases, and no late fees. Just obtain a valid library card from your library.

2. How do I get a library card?

Some libraries let you get a library card directly inside Libby, using your phone number.

Libraries have varying requirements for library cards. Your best bet is to contact your local library directly (or visit their website) to see what you need to do.

3. Does Libby work with my library?

Libby partners with public libraries using OverDrive. OverDrive is available in over 90% of public libraries in North America, and Libby is available in 78 countries around the world.

4. What books can I find at Libby?

From classics to New York Times bestsellers, your library chooses which digital publications they want to make available in Libby. This means they can tailor their content directly to the needs of your community. Libby is only available for digital publications. It does not include any physical books from your library.

In the user-friendly ebook reader:

- Customizing text size, background color, and book layout

- Enlarging content in magazines and comic books

- Defining and searching for specific words and phrases

- Engaging in read-alongs with your children through listening options

- Making bookmarks, notes, and highlights

In the innovative audio player:

- Adjusting audio playback speed (0.6 to 3.0x)

- Setting a sleep timer

- Navigating easily by swiping to skip forwards and backwards

- Creating bookmarks, notes, and highlights

Libby is a creation by the OverDrive team, dedicated to supporting libraries globally. Start your enjoyable reading experience today!