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Answered By: Jessica Gonzales
Last Updated: Dec 08, 2023     Views: 419

You can enjoy OverDrive eBooks in several ways. If you'd like to download them to a device or computer, go to How do I get started with OverDrive?

You can also read books directly in your internet browser. There are two methods:

  • Get OverDrive eBooks from OverDrive
    This method is best for browsing and discovering titles, because you can limit your search to only OverDrive eBooks. You can also stream audiobooks.
     
  • Get OverDrive eBooks from the catalog (see below)
    This method is good if you know exactly what you want (searching by title) or come across an OverDrive eBook that you're interested in. It works only for OverDrive eBooks, not audiobooks.


Get OverDrive eBooks from the catalog

  1. Go to the catalog and find an OverDrive eBook.
     
    Tip: After running a search, on the left look under Filter your results by. Under Book, choose eBook. If you don't see this, first click the red Filter results button.
  2. The book you want must say eBook. Click Checkout Now.

    Screenshot indicating eBook listed under title The Cartographers. The CHECKOUT NOW button is indicated.


    Note: Titles with holds will say Request this Download. Click it to place a hold.
     
  3. Log in if prompted. Confirm that OverDrive Read is an option: OverDrive Read with R logo
     
  4. If the book is not available, click Place Hold. If it is available, choose Checkout Now.
     
  5. After the page refreshes, locate the item on the page (or find it under My APL: Checked Out) and click Access this item. A box will pop-up on your screen with a selection of options for how to read your eBook. Select Read now in browser. 
     
    Screenshot showing a checked out item with the options " Read now with Kindle", "Read now in browser", "Download EPUB eBook". A call-out is indicated for "Read now in browser".

     
  6. The book will load in a new browser tab. When your reading session is over, close the tab. To continue reading, go to your Checked Out books in your account, and repeat the process of clicking Access this item to then the prompt to Read now in browser by the book. You will pick up where you left off.

To return the book early, click Return Now. Otherwise, it will return automatically after the lending period ends.


Call us at 512-974-7400, Option 1 if you need additional assistance.