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How to Use Libby and OverDrive to Borrow Library eBooks for Free in Canada

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How to Use Libby and OverDrive to Borrow Library eBooks for Free in Canada

Did You Know Your Library Card Lets You Read for Free?

If you have a library card from any public library in Canada, you have access to thousands of eBooks and audiobooks without spending a single penny. The app that makes this possible is called Libby, and it is wonderfully easy to use. Whether you prefer reading on a tablet, a smartphone, or a computer, this guide will show you exactly how to get started.

What Are Libby and OverDrive?

OverDrive is the company that provides digital books to libraries across Canada and around the world. Libby is their free app that makes borrowing and reading those books simple. Think of Libby as your virtual library branch that is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Almost every Canadian public library uses OverDrive, including Toronto Public Library, Vancouver Public Library, Ottawa Public Library, and small-town libraries across every province.

Step 1: Get a Library Card

If you do not already have a library card, you can usually sign up online:

  • Visit your local library website and look for "Get a Library Card" or "Register Online"
  • You will need to provide your name and address in Canada
  • Many libraries now offer instant digital access so you can start borrowing right away
  • If you need to visit in person, library cards are free for residents

Step 2: Download the Libby App

  1. On your iPhone or iPad, open the App Store and search for "Libby"
  2. On your Android phone or tablet, open the Google Play Store and search for "Libby"
  3. Tap Install and wait for the app to download
  4. Open the app when installation is complete

If you prefer reading on a computer, you can also visit libbyapp.com in your web browser without downloading anything.

Step 3: Connect Your Library Card to Libby

  1. Open Libby and tap Yes when asked if you have a library card
  2. Tap Search for My Library and type your city or library name (for example, "Toronto Public Library")
  3. Select your library from the list
  4. Enter your library card number and PIN. If you do not know your PIN, your library can help you reset it.
  5. Tap Sign In. You are now connected!

Step 4: Browse and Borrow Books

Now the fun begins. Here is how to find and borrow books:

  1. Tap Library at the bottom of the screen to browse
  2. Use the Search magnifying glass icon to look for a specific book, author, or topic
  3. Browse curated lists like "Popular Now" or "Available Right Now" for inspiration
  4. When you find a book you want, tap Borrow
  5. If all copies are checked out, tap Place Hold and Libby will notify you when it is your turn
  6. Borrowed books appear on your Shelf tab

Step 5: Read or Listen to Your Book

Libby handles both eBooks and audiobooks:

  • eBooks: Tap the book cover on your Shelf to start reading. You can adjust the text size, change the font, and switch between light and dark backgrounds for comfortable reading.
  • Audiobooks: Tap the audiobook cover to start listening. You can adjust the narration speed and set a sleep timer so it stops playing after you fall asleep.

Making Text Bigger for Comfortable Reading

One of the best features of Libby is that you can make the text as large as you need:

  1. While reading, tap the centre of the screen
  2. Tap the Aa icon at the top
  3. Drag the text size slider to the right to make letters bigger
  4. You can also choose a font like OpenDyslexic which is specially designed for easy reading

How Long Can You Keep Books?

Borrowed books are automatically returned after the loan period, usually 21 days. You never get late fees because the book simply disappears from your Shelf when the loan ends. If you finish early, you can return it sooner so the next person can enjoy it.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Libby

  • You can borrow books from multiple libraries at once. Add all the library systems you belong to.
  • Tap the plus sign next to "Tags" to create a wish list of books you want to read later
  • Libby works with Kindle e-readers in some regions, though this feature is limited in Canada compared to the US
  • Download books over WiFi before a trip so you can read without an internet connection
  • If a book has a long wait, Libby tells you the estimated wait time so you can decide whether to place a hold

Happy Reading!

Your library card is a treasure chest of free books, and Libby is the key to opening it. There is no cost, no late fees, and no risk. Start with a book by your favourite author or try something new. Reading has never been easier or more affordable. Enjoy every page!