We get a lot of questions about eReading at the library. If you’ve been on the fence about trying it out but don’t know where to start the next few #techtuesday posts are going to be for you!
For the last decade libraries have been able to let people access books or audiobooks digitally through a computer, tablet, smartphone, or dedicated eReader. You can see our collection of ebooks and eaudiobooks at the BC Library2Go website https://bcpl.overdrive.com/bcpl-thompsonnicola/content
It works a lot like normal library lending. The library buys a digital copy of a book and you can check it out or put it on hold (if someone else has it checked out). Most library patrons use the Libby app https://www.overdrive.com/apps/libby/ to check out and read our ebooks and eaudiobooks. Libby can be downloaded onto tablets and smartphones from the Google Play or Apple App Store.
Kobo’s are another common device used for eReading. You can find instructions on how to use them with the library here https://help.kobo.com/hc/en-us/articles/360017677053-Borrow-eBooks-from-the-public-library-using-your-Kobo-eReader. A word of caution – we troubleshoot Kobo’s more than any other device at the library. They weren’t designed to borrow library books. Kobo has always prioritized purchasing books from the Kobo Store so they can be fussy devices.
We do not recommend purchasing a Kindle if you want to read library ebooks and eaudiobooks. Amazon doesn’t allow Kindle’s to access library materials in Canada.
Next time we’ll be talking about all the features in Libby!