Getting Started with Libby: A Step-by-Step Setup for Beginners

Libby: The Ultimate Guide to Borrowing eBooks and AudiobooksLibby is the reading app from OverDrive designed to make borrowing ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines from your public library simple and enjoyable. This guide walks you through everything from getting started and searching for titles to advanced tips, troubleshooting, and ways to get the most value from your library’s digital collection.

Why use Libby?

• Free access to thousands of titles through your public library membership.
• User-friendly interface optimized for mobile and tablet reading/listening.
• Syncs across devices (with an OverDrive account) so you can pick up where you left off.
• Built-in reading and listening tools such as adjustable playback speed, bookmarks, notes, and offline downloads.

Getting started

1. Download the app: Libby is available for iOS, Android, and on most tablets. You can also use Libby in a web browser at libbyapp.com.
2. Find your library: Open Libby and search for your library by name, city, or zip code. If you have a library card, enter it when prompted. If your library supports sign-in with a library account via your institution’s website, you may be routed there.
3. Browse or search: Use the search bar for specific titles, authors, or subjects, or browse curated collections and lists.
4. Borrowing: Tap Borrow on a title to check it out. You’ll see options for loan length if your library offers multiple durations. Borrowed titles download for offline use.
5. Shelf and Returns: Your Shelf organizes checked-out books, holds, and tags. Titles return automatically at the end of the loan period, but you can return them early.

Navigation and core features

• Shelf: Current loans, holds, and reading position.
• Loans: Downloaded for offline reading/listening.
• Holds: Titles you’re waiting to borrow — Libby notifies you when available.
• Tags: Create custom tags for personal organization (e.g., “Summer reads”).
• Notifications: Alerts for available holds and expirations.
• Exporting notes and highlights: Libby allows exporting of notes/highlights from some books for study and reference.

Reading in Libby

• Adjustable font sizes and styles, including dyslexic-friendly fonts.
• Margin and line spacing controls to suit your reading comfort.
• Night mode and themes for low-light reading.
• In-book search and table of contents.
• Bookmarks and notes synced to your Shelf.

Listening in Libby (audiobooks)

• Adjustable playback speeds (e.g., 0.5x–3x depending on the file).
• Sleep timer to stop playback after a set time.
• Skip chapter buttons and chapter navigation via the player.
• Offline downloads to save audiobooks to your device.

Managing holds and availability

• If a title is currently checked out, place a hold. Libby shows your place in the queue and estimated wait time.
• Some libraries offer simultaneous-use titles (no holds). These are often labeled “Unlimited copies” — you can borrow immediately.
• Many libraries set borrowing periods (commonly 7, 14, or 21 days) — Libby displays available loan lengths.

Tips to get the most out of Libby

• Link multiple library cards: Add other libraries where you have memberships to expand available catalogs.
• Use Wish Lists/Tags: Tag titles you want to read later, or create lists like “Nonfiction research.”
• Alternate formats: If an ebook has a long hold queue, check if the audiobook is available (or vice versa).
• Use filters: Filter searches by format, availability, audience (adult/teen/children), language, and more.
• Export highlights: For research or book clubs, export notes and highlights when available.
• Try sample: Tap Sample to preview an ebook or audiobook before borrowing.
• Offline mode: Download titles while on Wi‑Fi to conserve mobile data.

Accessibility

Libby supports screen readers and includes adjustable text settings and dyslexic font options to improve accessibility for readers with different needs.

Troubleshooting common issues

• Can’t find a library: Try variations of the library name, city, or zip code. Some smaller libraries use shared systems—search for the regional network.
• Can’t sign in: Confirm your library card number and PIN; reset or contact your library if necessary.
• Downloads failing: Check device storage and network connection; delete and re-download if needed.
• Playback problems: Update the app, restart your device, or clear and re-download the audiobook.
• Holds not updating: Sign out and back in, or refresh your Shelf.

Privacy and account notes

Libby requires a library card to borrow, and your borrowing activity is managed by your library’s OverDrive system. Libraries generally keep checkout records per their policies; check your library’s privacy policy for details.

Alternatives and integrations

• OverDrive (classic app/web): Libby is the newer, streamlined app, but OverDrive’s original interface still exists for some features.
• Hoopla and RBdigital: Other library digital services with different catalogs and streaming models.
• Kindle integration: For some libraries, you can send borrowed ebooks to your Kindle device via Amazon.

Frequently asked questions (short)

• Can I keep a book forever? No — loans auto-return at the end of the loan period.
• Can I renew? Some libraries allow renewals if there are no holds; otherwise place a hold.
• Can I share my library account? Library cards and logins vary by library; sharing may violate library policies.
• Are magazines available? Many libraries offer digital magazines through Libby or associated services.

Final tips

Explore your library’s collections, make use of tags and wish lists, and add other library cards to maximize available titles. Libby turns your local library into a portable bookstore — free, legal, and packed with options for readers and listeners.