What is Libby?
Libby is a library reading app made by OverDrive and used by thousands of public libraries. You find your library in the app, sign in with your library card, and borrow ebooks and audiobooks from its digital collection without paying anything. Loans return themselves when they are due, so there are no late fees.
Libby runs on phones and tablets and in a web browser at libbyapp.com. You can read and listen inside the app, place holds on popular titles, download books for offline use, and keep a list of titles you want to borrow later. What you can borrow depends on what your own library has bought.
Main Features
- Borrow ebooks and audiobooks with a library card
- Read and listen in the app or in a browser
- Holds and waitlists for popular titles
- Downloads for offline reading and listening
- Automatic returns with no late fees
- Supports multiple library cards
How to Get Started with Libby
- Open libbyapp.com or install the Libby app
- Search for your local library
- Sign in with your library card number
- Browse the collection and borrow or place a hold on a title
Libby Pricing
Libby is free. Your library pays for the digital collection, so all you need is a valid library card from a participating library.
Who Should Use It?
- Readers who want free ebooks and audiobooks
- Commuters who listen to audiobooks
- Families borrowing children's books
- Students looking for books through their library
- Anyone trying to cut book spending
Libby Alternatives
- The StoryGraph: track reading and get book recommendations
- ElevenReader: listen to books and articles read aloud
- SoBrief: book summaries to read or listen to
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Libby free?
Yes. Libby is free to use. You only need a library card from a library that offers Libby.
What do I need to use Libby?
You need a library card from a participating public library and the Libby app or a web browser.
Why do some books on Libby have a waitlist?
Libraries buy a set number of digital copies, so when they are all on loan you can place a hold and wait your turn.