What is Libby (Overdrive)?
We are excited to announce that this semester Loyola University Libraries has new ways to read ebooks and listen to audiobooks! Libby (Overdrive) is the "platform" or service but most users read or listen to the content through "apps" designed to make reading/listening/watching easy. These apps include Libby and Kindle. You can also access ebooks on your laptop. So many choices!
These tools are common in most public libraries but they are new to Loyola University Libraries. We are starting with a small collection and plan to work to grow the collection over time.
Libby app to read ebooks and listen to audiobooks
With the Libby app, you can borrow ebooks and audiobooks from your library. All you need is your Loyola UVID.
- Most books have a default checkout period of 21 days. Books can be renewed or returned early (so the next reader can read it). If someone else has the book you want, you can place a hold. You will be notified when the book is available to check out. You can place a hold on fifteen (15) books at a time.
- Our collection is small but growing. If you want more ebooks via Libby, sign up for a local public library card. Loyola University Chicago students can sign up for a library eCard from Chicago Public Library or other public libraries.
- You can browse, check out and read books online at loyola.overdrive.com or you can use the Libby app on your mobile device. Download the Libby app to your Mac OS or Android smartphone or tablet. Many books are available in Kindle Book, ePub, and OverDrive Read file types.
- You can also find and access titles through the Loyola University Chicago Libraries homepage. Titles that say "OverDrive Audiobooks Collection (Lakeside Libraries)" or "OverDrive Ebooks Collection (Lakeside Libraries)" can be accessed on any computer or mobile device.
Libby App
Libby is the most current app released by OverDrive. It has a clean intuitive interface, and it is easy to access materials purchased by the Loyola University of Chicago Libraries as well as by your local library.
You can download Libby on:
- iOS 10+ (get it from the Apple App Store)
- Android 5.0+ (get it on Google Play)
- Fire OS 5+ (get it directly from OverDrive, the developers of Libby)
If you have a Windows computer, Mac computer, or a Chromebook, you can use Libby in your web browser at libbyapp.com. We suggest using the latest version of Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or Edge.
Set up Libby App
You'll only have to follow all of these steps the first time you use the app.
- Download the app. If you already have the app and an account at another library, you'll just need to add the Loyola University of Chicago Library to your library list.
- Open Libby and follow the prompts to sign in (or sign up) using your LUC UVID as your library card.
- In the app, tap the menu, select Add a library, enter LUC zip code 60660 and tap Search.
- Tap Loyola University of Chicago Library.
- You'll be taken to Loyola University of Chicago Library's OverDrive page and it will now be in your library list.
- Tap the Sign-in button and choose your sign-in option. We recommend the Overdrive account because it can remember your library card after you entered it for the first time at each of your libraries. That way you'll use your OverDrive account login at all your libraries instead do having to remember your library card info for each one. Make sure to select KEEP ME SIGNED IN ON THIS DEVICE if you are the only user of the device.
- Now you can browse for eBooks, check them out, place holds or add to your wish list.