What is OverDrive? OverDrive is a way to access thousands of eBooks and eAudiobooks for FREE from the Library!
How can I access OverDrive? You can access OverDrive in many different ways, to name a few: from your computer, Kindle, Nook, iPad, Sony Reader, SmartPhone and many more eReaders and Tablets.
What do I need to start using OverDrive?
- First, you need a Library Card;
- Second, you need to be at a computer with internet access – or if using OverDrive from your eReader or Tablet to be in an area with Wi-Fi (wireless internet)
- Finally, you’ll need to set up a free OverDrive account.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many books can I check out at a time?
The maximum number of books (either eAudio or eBook format) is four.
Why can’t I find all the latest best sellers in OverDrive?
Not all publishers have agreed to make their books available in electronic format. Some titles may never appear in OverDrive – rest assured you can still request physical copies from the library if they aren’t available online!
Why do I have to place a book on hold? I thought all the books in OverDrive were available all the time since they are online.
Like physical books in the library, there are only a limited number of electronic copies for each title in OverDrive. If all copies are checked out at the same time OverDrive creates a “Hold queue”; this works exactly the same as placing a hold at the Reference desk for a copy of a popular book in Evergreen/NOBLE.
How long can I borrow books from OverDrive?
OverDrive allows you to set the lending period! You have the option to borrow eBooks for 7, 14, or 21 days at a time. However, the lending period may vary from title to title
Some Helpful Terminology
Cloud Reader: Cloud readers give the user the ability to read OverDrive READ ebooks in a web browser (i.e. Firefox, Safari, Chrome, etc), rather than having to download or install software on a computer or device.
ePub: Short for electronic publication, a digital version of a print book that has been optimized for onscreen viewing. ePub books allow the user to change text size, font type, and even page color. Adobe Digital Editions must be installed and authorized to download/read ePub books on your computer or device.
eReader: A device intended with the singular purpose of reading electronic versions of books, newspapers, or magazines.
MP3: A popular and very common format for audio or music files which can be played on most portable devices.
Tablet: A general-purpose computer contained in a single panel; a distinguishing characteristic is having a touch screen.
WMA: Windows Media Audio, for audio or music. Developed by Microsoft to distribute audio via the Internet. WMA titles can only be downloaded on Windows computers or devices.
About OverDrive account
- An OverDrive account is free.
- It authorizes users to borrow eBooks and eAudiobooks from OverDrive.
- It DOES NOT replace the need for your Library card. You will still need to enter your card number when you borrow a book.
- Your OverDrive account can sync your favorite (starred) libraries, saved searches, and reading or listening position across multiple devices.
- You can authorize/sync up to six (6) devices with the same OverDrive account.
Need more help? Visit http://help.overdrive.com for an interactive website with a variety of help topics or call the Library at 781.334.5411.
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