Use this app to borrow free e-books, audiobooks from libraries
Libby is a digital library app that allows users to borrow e-books and audiobooks from public libraries. Users can also download digital books on the app for offline reading. While e-books (basically files under 20MB) are automatically downloaded in the Read or Listen formats, audiobooks have to be downloaded manually. Libby is available on Android, iOS, and Windows 10. However, the app hasn't integrated Indian libraries.
Manage all your digital books in one place
Libby allows users to sign into multiple libraries and even the same library with multiple cards. Users can also send e-books to their Kindle devices if they are used to reading digital books on it. The front page interface of the Libby app showcases the newest e-books and audios and lists of popular genres.
Here is how the app works
To borrow a book, click on a title's cover and if it's available, click on "Borrow." The lending period for a book is 21 days, after which all titles expire automatically. Notably, users can check out up to 20 titles at one time. Once you sign up, Libby verifies your contact details and confirms your eligibility and residency before issuing you a library card.
Libby boosts card registrations in public libraries
This ability to apply for a digital library card without having to visit any physical branch has been added on Libby only recently. Due to it, libraries in the US saw 30,000 new card registrations in the first four months of 2018.
Not to be confused with the OverDrive app
Libby is not to be confused with its parent company OverDrive, which is also a digital library app and provides access to the same libraries and content. The difference is that Libby is more streamlined, easier to use, and designed for a fast and attractive digital browsing experience. However, unlike the OverDrive app, it doesn't support video streaming and all-text boldface font.
