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1. What is OverDrive?

OverDrive is a collection of downloadable audiobooks and eBooks for Garland Library cardholders. You can listen to MP3 audiobooks, read eBook, PDF, Kindle and/or graphic novels. Audiobooks and eBooks can be used on a PC, Mac, tablet or smartphone. Apps are available for iPhone, Android and Windows Mobile.

2. How do I download digital books from the catalog?

The library catalog now contains downloadable materials from OverDrive, Project Gutenberg and Open Library. These downloadable items can be requested or checked out and downloaded without leaving the library catalog. You can manage your requests and downloads from My Account in the portal as well.

How to Download

There are several ways to download digital titles. When you find an eBook or eAudiobook in the catalog that you would like to read, click on "Download." You will be prompted to enter your library card and PIN. Next, choose the format you would like (Adobe Digital Editions, HTML or Kindle for eBooks) and click "check out."

If you are in the library or on a computer or device you cannot download to, then the download will not proceed after you check out. When you get to your computer you can download from, go to the library portal and click on My Account. Enter your library card and PIN. Your downloadable titles will be in "Digital Checkouts." Click on that tab and you will see a "Download" link with each title you can use to access the eBook or eAudiobook.

OverDrive

Can you still use OverDrive to access digital books? Yes, you may. In fact, what you do in the portal is reflected in your OverDrive account. The only thing you cannot do in the portal is set a book to automatically checkout when you place a hold. But, once the hold is placed in the portal, you can go to OverDrive and edit the hold to checkout to you when it’s available.

3. Is there an app?

Yes, in fact there are two apps: Libby and the OverDrive app.

Libby

This is OverDrive's newest app. It is simple and easiest to use for beginners. It is also good for people who have library cards from multiple libraries. Libby can be used on Apple, Android and Windows devices and, unlike the OverDrive app, it can be opened in a browser. Libby cannot be loaded on Kindle Fire but you can use Libby to send books to your Kindle

• Get started with the Libby app
• Libby app help

OverDrive App

this is the original app that we have had for several years. It is good for people who like to make lists. This app is available for most devices.

• Getting started with the OverDrive app
• OverDrive App help

4. Are there instructions?

Yes, please visit the OverDrive section of our website. OverDrive also has lots of instructions and help on their page. If you need help with loading OverDrive on your device email lib-support@garlandtx.gov or call the Reference Desk at 972-205-2501. If you want one-on-one assistance, email Library Support and make an appointment to meet with a librarian.

5. Are there help pages?

Yes, OverDrive has extensive help articles. If your problem is not listed then email Library Support or call the Reference Desk at 972-205-2501.

If you want one-on-one assistance, email Library Support and make an appointment to meet with a librarian.

6. Is OverDrive up and working?

If you are having problems that you cannot figure out how to resolve, check the OverDrive status page. The problem may be on OverDrive's end and not with the title or your device. If all is well, email your issue to Library Support or call the Reference Desk at 972-205-2501.

7. What does "Privilege has expired" mean?

You try to sign in to your account but get this message:

Sign in Error
We're sorry, but the specified library patron account information is not valid.
Details: (1) Privilege has expired

That message means your card has expired. What you need to do is bring your library card and a photo ID to any Garland Library to get your account renewed for another 4 years. Go to Contact Us to see what’s closest and/or most convenient.

8. Why are the downloadable books not always available?

Simply put, that is not the business model OverDrive (and many of the book publishers) employ. Libraries purchase downloadable titles much the same as we do print titles - one person can read a book at a time. If, and when, a hold list builds, we buy more copies. Some titles we lease based on the number of checkouts the title can have. If it appears that titles come and go this is likely why.

9. Can I request the library buy certain downloadable titles?

Yes, and you have a few options for suggesting titles:

• Look up the titles you want on our OverDrive site or in the OverDrive app.  Titles that we do not own that are available for us to purchase in OverDrive will have a recommend option.  Select this to recommend we purchase the title.  Patrons can recommend three titles per month. Any of your recommendations we purchase will be put on hold for you.
• Visit OverDrive's website and look up the title there.  You will be able to see if the title or author you want to read is even available as a downloadable book and in the format you want to read it in. You will be able to see if it is available in Garland Libraries, and if it is available in nearby libraries.  Email us the titles you would like us to purchase.
• Email your titles requests Library Support and they will be sent to the Collection Development Team to research and possibly purchase.

10. Why does the library not have this book? Or only has the eBook format?

Book publishers make deals with many different digital book vendors. Sometimes that can mean a title is only available for us to purchase in specific formats. For example, OverDrive may only be able to provide the eBook for public libraries to purchase if another vendor holds the exclusive rights to the eAudiobook format.

11. Who do I contact if I am having problems with OverDrive?

Email your issue to Library Support or call the Reference Desk at 972-205-2501. If you are having problems with Libby, use the support link within the app or on the Libby Support page.