What's the difference between Libby and OverDrive?

OverDrive is a company that provides digital content (like ebooks and audiobooks) for free to public library patrons. Libby is OverDrive's mobile app where you can borrow ebooks, digital audiobooks.

Why is the Sonoma County Library logo on my Libby app/Overdrive website?

Mendocino County Library shares our Libby/Overdrive digital platform with Sonoma County Library. You will see the Sonoma County Library logo on the Libby app and the Overdrive website, but you will continue to log in with your Mendocino County Library card and PIN number to download items.

I lost my library card and got a replacement card. Can I still use my Libby account?

Yes! However, since you have a new library card number you will need to update your Libby account by contacting Library Technical Services at libtechservices@mendocinocounty.gov or (707) 234-2861. They will be able to merge your old and new library cards in Libby so that you don't lose your requests, borrowed items, and wishlists.

I'm trying to log in and borrow an item, but it says to contact the library. I've used Libby before, why isn't it working?

Most likely there is an issue with your library card. It may have expired or there may be more than $20 owed on your account, which will block you from using Libby/OverDrive. Please contact us to resolve this issue.

Can I find Libby/OverDrive items in the catalog?

Yes, you can find and download Libby/OverDrive items in the catalog. They appear in the catalog with Electronic Formats of HTML, ADOBE EPUB, and KINDLE. View this video tutorial for instructions.

Can I return a book early?

Yes, you can return any item early by going to the Loans shelf in Libby, tap "Manage Loan," and then tap "Return Early" and "Return." You can also return items early on the OverDrive website by going to the Loans page and selecting "Return." Please note, Kindle books can't be returned early in Libby, but you can return them from Amazon's website, your Kindle ereader, or the Kindle app.

Some items have wait lists. Why do I need to wait for a copy of a digital title?

In most cases, libraries buy individual "copies" of digital titles from publishers. Publishers often require that each digital copy is only loaned to one person at a time (just like physical library books). This ensures that authors, narrators, and other creators are paid fairly for their work, even if it's consumed digitally.

The number of copies the library buys depends on a few factors, like demand and budget. Even if there's a lot of demand, the library's budget might not allow for more digital copies of a popular title.

How do I place a hold?

If all copies of a digital title are checked out, you can place a hold by tapping on "Place Hold" and wait for it to become available. When the title becomes available, you'll get a notification and have 72 hours to borrow it.

Please follow these instructions to manage your notifications in Libby. You can also follow these instructions to change your email for notifications in Libby,or on the Overdrive website.

Can I use a Kindle with Libby/OverDrive?

Yes, most titles are compatible with Kindle ereaders. Please see these instructions for how to send ebooks to a Kindle from Libby or from the OverDrive website.

If you are using a Kindle Fire tablet, you can download the Libby app to your device and borrow items within the app.

I've been using the OverDrive Desktop software. Where can I get assistance with that?

As of February 23, 2022, OverDrive's desktop software for audiobooks is no longer available to install. You can contact us for assistance, or you can browse the help articles for Windows (desktop) or Mac.

Please note: The MP3 audiobook format will be removed and OverDrive's desktop app for Windows and Mac will stop being supported on November 13, 2024. Download audiobooks using the Libby app instead.

Contact us by email, phone, or in person.

Visit OverDrive's Help pages, Libby Help, or check out OverDrive's getting started guide.