What is OverDrive?
OverDrive is a free service that enables you to borrow digital content like eBooks, audiobooks, and streaming videos from your local library or school. Whether you’re at home or on the go, you can access thousands of titles with just a library card or student ID. Collections vary by library or school, as each institution curates its own selection of digital materials to meet the needs of its community.
Expansive Library Network
Currently, OverDrive partners with over 16,000 libraries and 10,000 school libraries across the United States. This expansive network ensures that users can find a diverse range of content, from bestsellers and new releases to classic literature and academic resources. Unlike many other digital lending platforms, OverDrive doesn’t limit you to one loan per month—so you can read more freely, depending on what’s available in your library’s digital collection.
Getting Started
Accessing books through OverDrive is simple. Once you’ve connected to your local library, you can search for books by title, author, or ISBN, and explore categories like fiction, romance, mystery, and more. If you find a title you’re interested in but it’s currently checked out, you can place a hold and be notified by email when it becomes available. Keep in mind that loan periods and availability are determined by your library, not by OverDrive itself.
How to Connect
To start borrowing, visit OverDrive and search for your local library by name, city, or ZIP code. If you’re a member of multiple library branches, you can connect to each one separately. Once connected, all you need is your library card or student ID to access the digital catalog and start borrowing right away.
Additional Considerations
While OverDrive offers a convenient and cost-effective way to access digital content, some users have noted that customer service can be lacking, and there is limited data available on individual usage. However, these concerns are relatively minor compared to the value of having access to such a vast selection of digital content for free.
Read and Learn Anywhere
Whether you’re looking to catch up on the latest bestsellers, explore new genres, or support your studies with digital textbooks, OverDrive provides a flexible, user-friendly solution. With just a library card or student ID, you can enjoy eBooks, audiobooks, and more anytime, anywhere. For readers and learners of all ages, OverDrive is a fantastic resource to expand your horizons and make the most of your local library’s digital offerings.
