While Nook tablets like the Nook Color, Nook HD, or Nook HD+ are treated like an Android tablet (see instructions here), downloading to a Nook Simple Touch or other dedicated e-reader (like the Kobo, some Sony e-readers, as well as others) is done a bit differently.
Downloading to a dedicated e-reader requires that you start the process of searching for and checking out an ebook by visiting one of our ebook platforms on your computer. You will also need to download the free Adobe Digital Editions (ADE) software to your PC or Mac. Using our Overdrive collection as an example, once you check out an ebook, hit "Download," and it will open in your new ADE software. The first time you use your software you will be required to register with a free Adobe ID. If you do not have an Adobe ID, you will be prompted to create one online. Then you plug your Nook or other dedicated e-reader in to your computer with the USB cable. You will be prompted to authorize your device with ADE the first time you plug it in. Then you can drag and drop your new ebook in to your e-reader in the ADE software.
Here's a video that walks you through the process.
Downloading library ebooks to a Kindle is a simple process and this post will get you started. Before going further though, please note that the Kindle Fire works like an Android tablet and the instructions for downloading to a tablet can be found here. For all other Kindles: the Paperwhite, the Kindle, and the Kindle Keyboard, here's the scoop...
Downloading to a Kindle requires that you start the process of searching for and checking out an ebook by visiting our Overdrive collection on your computer. Once you find an ebook, select the Kindle format version, login with your library card, check it out, and click the "Get For Kindle' link. You will be taken to Amazon to complete the free transaction. Amazon will give you the option of delivering the ebook to your Kindle via Wi-Fi or by downloading it to your computer where you can plug your Kindle in with the USB cable and drag and drop the ebook into your reader. Some publishers restrict whether or not their Kindle books can be delivered via Wi-Fi or must be transferred via USB.
For more help, see these two videos that walk you through the process of downloading to a Kindle.
Getting ebooks or audiobooks for your Apple or Android Tablet, Phone, or mobile device is simple. This broad category includes many types of devices, but what they all share in common is the ability to add and use mobile apps.
The Overdrive Media Console (OMC) app allows you to browse, search, checkout, download, and read library ebooks and listen to library audiobooks on your tablet or mobile device. There is no need to use your web browser or transfer items to your device from your computer. You can use OMC anywhere you connect wirelessly to the Internet: at home, at work, at the neighborhood coffee shop, or at any branch of the Free Library.
Once you add the app, OMC will prompt you to add your library. Search for the Free Library of Philadelphia and add us to your OMC. If you are a member of more than one library, you can add others too (though I am telling you up front they won't be nearly as wonderful as we are). Next, you will be prompted to register your OMC with a free Adobe ID. If you do not have an Adobe ID, you will be prompted to create one online.
Then you enter your library card number and you're off to the races. The video below takes you step by step through the process for Android.
Also, below are a series of videos from Overdirve that take you through the process on an iOS/Apple device.
Congratulations on your new e-reader, tablet, or mobile device! We hope you enjoy borrowing digital items from the Free Library of Philadelphia. Here's a quick guide to get you on your way.
First of all, finding digital items to check out on the Free Library's website is simple. You can start at the pink 'Download Media' button on our homepage or by taking a look at this video that introduces our various digital platforms and shows you how to get around our site.
Next, there are basically three ways to download library ebooks. The option that's right for you depends upon the type of device you own. Find a guide for each below...
E-readers and tablets are among this year's hottest holiday gifts and of course, borrowing Free Library ebooks and audiobooks for your new e-reader or tablet is the hottest activity for those in the know. In this guide, I'll offer tips on the following topics to get you started:
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