Libby by OverDrive is a free app that lets you borrow e-books and audiobooks from your local library or school. This evergreen guide explains how to get started, find good books, and use Libby effectively on phones, tablets, and computers.
Getting Started with Libby
To use Libby, you need a library card from a participating library. Install the app on your device, add your library, and sign in with your library card number and PIN. Once authenticated, you can browse the library’s collection and place holds on titles. Holds typically follow first-available scheduling, and Libby allows you to place holds immediately if copies are available. You can borrow up to the limit set by your library, often 10 to 20 items at a time, with loans lasting 7 to 21 days depending on format and library policy.
Key Borrowing Limits and Settings
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Borrow Limit | Varies by library, commonly 10–20 items | Library policy |
| Loan Duration | Typically 7–21 days | Library policy |
| Simultaneous Borrows | Usually 1–5 checked-out items | Library policy |
| Holds Per Cycle | Often limited to current holds queue | Library policy |
| Availability | First-available or reservation-style | Library policy |
Finding Good Books on Libby
Start with your library’s curated collections, featured titles, and staff picks shown in the app. Use filters for format, audience, and subject to narrow results. Popular categories often include contemporary fiction, mysteries, memoirs, young adult, and accessible formats such as large print or audiobooks. Many libraries also highlight award winners, seasonal themes, and local authors. If a title is unavailable, place a hold; Libby will queue requests and notify you when the book is ready to borrow.
Browsing and Discovery Tips
- Check staff picks, local collections, and new arrivals first
- Use subject filters to match your interests
- Sort by popularity or availability to find in-demand titles
- Save favorites to your shelf for later
Managing Loans and Holds
On your Loans shelf, you can renew items if the library allows it and no one else is waiting. You can also revoke holds if you no longer want a title. Return items early if you finish them; this can make room for others and may improve access for the queue. Note that some libraries use a waitlist-style hold system, where availability depends on position in the queue. Keep your notifications enabled so Libby can alert you when holds move to “Ready to borrow” or are due soon.
Renew, Revise, and Return
- Renew in-app only if available and within loan period
- Release holds you no longer want
- Return items early to help others access them
Audiobooks, Read-Alongs, and Accessibility
Libby supports audiobooks and often includes synchronized text-to-speech read-alongs for select titles, which can help with comprehension or language learning. Adjust playback speed, enable sleep timer, or switch between formats without losing your place. For readers with visual needs, use device-level accessibility features such as screen readers, dyslexia-friendly fonts, and high-contrast modes. Libby also offers adjustable text size, line spacing, and night mode within e-books to reduce eye strain.
Offline Use and Device Syncing
Download borrowed titles for offline reading or listening when you have Wi-Fi or cellular data. On phones and tablets, open the item and select Download. On a computer, use the Libby Desktop app or browser extension to borrow and manage loans. Across devices, your shelves and progress sync when you’re signed in. Keep the app updated to ensure compatibility with new features and security improvements. Note that some libraries restrict simultaneous checkouts to a small number of devices, so check your library’s policy if you plan to use multiple devices at once.
Quick Device Checklist
- Install Libby and sign in with your library
- Download titles for offline access
- Enable notifications for holds and due dates
- Keep the app updated
- Verify device and hold limits with your library
Troubleshooting and Support
Common issues include holds not moving to available, failed downloads, and syncing errors. First, confirm your library account is active and in good standing. Check your internet connection and ensure the app is updated. If a hold remains stuck, contact your library for assistance. For app-specific problems, consult the in-app Help section or the Libby support resources on the official website. Avoid unofficial third-party tools that claim to modify borrowing limits; these can violate terms of service and risk account restrictions.
Verifying Library Policies and Features
Because borrowing rules differ by library, confirm limits, loan periods, holds, and device restrictions directly with your library. Policies on simultaneous checkouts, renewal eligibility, and format availability can change. When in doubt, ask a librarian or check your library’s FAQ. Reliable sources include your library’s website, the official Libby support center, and your library card agreement.