Now that you’re using JustWatch for your movie and show viewing needs, it’s time to turn to books.
Let’s say that during your furlough, you’re in the mood to read; but maybe you don’t have any books around the house, or aren’t interested in reading the books you do have. Well, first, you should most definitely order books online from local independent bookstores. Like most small businesses, they’ll be hurting during this period. Do that first. Maybe order from my awesome neighborhood bookstore, Books are Magic. [Also, the previous text is a link. Unfortunately this wordpress theme is fucking terrible at making it clear text is a hyperlink. I need a new theme.]
Yet, much to my despair, most of us can’t afford to buy unlimited books. Thus, even after supporting independent bookstores, you may be looking for some free options. But there’s the rub, because in most localities, all library branches are closed. That’s where Libby or Overdrive come in. Either app will allow you to access the entire catalogue of audio and ebooks available through your library system, right on your phone.
Now, if you don’t have a library card, you probably can’t get one right now, as systems require you to physically go into a branch to get a card. So, unless your local library is making an exception while branches are closed, you’re unfortunately out of luck on the Libby/Overdrive front.
Maybe you can borrow a friend’s library card number to get you by in the meantime? I don’t know. It’s probably against the rules, and I actually don’t know if it would even work. Either way, don’t tell my wife, the librarian, I’m suggesting you try that. I’m not suggesting that at all. Just, you know, let’s say hypothetically someone without a library card wanted a Libby or Overdrive account, and let’s say, hypothetically, this person had a friend with a library card who doesn’t use Libby or Overdrive. Perhaps this person who wants an account could borrow their friend’s library card number to use Overdrive or Libby. That’s merely a thought experiment. I am in no way saying you should try that to see if it works. [Do it!]
Anyway, if you do have a library card, then Libby or Overdrive are the answer for all your audio and ebook needs. They are actually just two different interfaces for accessing the same system, as Libby is just an app Overdrive created to update their interface. Overdrive is still fully functional [I still use it, because I’m more fluent with how it works.] Either app will do the job.
Simply search for the title, series, or author you’re looking for. You’ll have immediate access to any available title, or be able to put yourself on a hold list if all the copies are already in use. [And yes, audio and ebooks still have a limited number of copies available.]
You can listen to audiobooks right in the app, and you can use the ebook reader of your choice — I use my Kindle app.
I won’t go into detail about all the features each app has, but if you have trouble, text me if you know me, or ask a question in the comments if you don’t. I promise that either I, or the librarian I’m married to, will answer all your questions.
Be safe, stay well, and be good to each other.
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