Boise Library Overdrive: Your Digital Gateway to Books
Boise Public Library offers a fantastic service called Overdrive (now Libby) that allows cardholders to borrow ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines digitally, all from the comfort of their homes. This service is free with your library card and provides a vast collection accessible on various devices.
Overdrive/Libby dramatically expands access to reading materials, especially for those who may have difficulty visiting the physical library.
What is Boise Library Overdrive/Libby?
Boise Public Library’s Overdrive, now seamlessly integrated into the Libby app, is a digital library platform. It’s essentially a virtual extension of the physical library, offering a wide range of digital books, audiobooks, and magazines available for borrowing. Instead of physically checking out a book, you download it to your device and it automatically returns itself when the lending period is over. You can explore more about OverDrive, Inc. on Wikipedia, the company behind this service.
How to Access Boise Library Overdrive/Libby
Accessing Overdrive/Libby is straightforward:
- Get a Boise Public Library Card: You need a valid library card to use the service. If you don’t have one, you can apply for one at any Boise Public Library branch or online.
- Download the Libby App: Libby is the user-friendly app that replaced the original Overdrive app. It’s available for iOS and Android devices, as well as Kindle Fire tablets. You can also access Libby through a web browser on your computer.
- Sign In: Open the Libby app and select Boise Public Library. You’ll be prompted to enter your library card number and PIN/password.
- Start Browsing: Once logged in, you can browse the collection by genre, author, title, or keyword.
Borrowing and Reading on Libby
Once you’ve found a title you want to borrow, simply click the “Borrow” button. You’ll have the option to choose your lending period, which typically ranges from 7 to 21 days. Once borrowed, the title will appear in your “Shelf” within the Libby app. From there, you can download it to your device for offline reading or listening. Libby supports various devices including ereaders, tablets, smartphones and computers.
Benefits of Using Boise Library Overdrive/Libby
There are many advantages to using Boise Library Overdrive/Libby:
- Convenience: Access books anytime, anywhere, without having to visit the library.
- Wide Selection: A vast collection of ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines to choose from.
- Free Service: Completely free with your library card.
- Automatic Returns: No late fees! Titles automatically return at the end of the lending period.
- Accessibility Features: Libby offers accessibility features like adjustable font sizes and screen readers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I read Libby books on my Kindle?
Yes, you can send Libby books to your Kindle device (in the US). The process involves borrowing the book in Libby, then selecting “Read with Kindle.” You will be directed to Amazon to complete the process.
What happens when my Libby book is due?
The book automatically returns itself. You don’t need to do anything, and there are no late fees. If no one else has requested it, you can usually renew the book a few days before it’s due.
How many books can I borrow at once on Libby?
The number of items you can borrow at once through Boise Public Library’s Libby service may vary, check the library’s website for the latest policies.
Is Libby free to use?
Yes, Libby is completely free to use with a valid Boise Public Library card.
Can I use Libby offline?
Yes, once you download a book or audiobook within the Libby app, you can access it offline without an internet connection during the lending period.
Summary
Boise Library Overdrive/Libby offers a convenient and free way to access a vast collection of digital books, audiobooks, and magazines. With a valid library card and the Libby app, you can enjoy reading and listening on your favorite devices anytime, anywhere.
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