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Library - OverDrive

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1. What is OverDrive?

OverDrive is a collection of ebooks, the majority of which are current popular fiction and nonfiction. OverDrive titles can be downloaded to or transferred to portable devices. There are no overdue fees, since ebooks are automatically returned on their due date!

2. What is an ebook?

An ebook is a digital version of a paper book that can be downloaded and read on a computer or portable device. The library acquires licenses to the digital content of each ebook. Most titles can only be checked out by one person at a time, just like the library’s print items.

There are several different types of ebook file types. Most OverDrive ebooks are available in EPUB, PDF or Kindle formats.

3. What are the differences between the ebook formats?

EPUB is the most common file type, and can be used on a variety of devices, including the Nook, smartphones and tablet devices through the OverDrive Media Console. The font type and size can be adjusted in an EPUB file to allow for comfortable reading.

A PDF does not have adjustable font size or type. PDFs are not compatible with the OverDrive Media Console, so Adobe Digital Editions is used to manage these files. They are typically not compatible with most smartphones and tablet devices.

Kindle books can only be used with Kindle devices or devices that have a Kindle app.

4. What do I need to get started using OverDrive ebooks?

1. An Allen Public Library card (Have the card, but can't remember your password? Have it sent to you via email.

2. Computer or portable device with Internet access.

Check out the Quickstart Guide for more detailed instructions, as instructions will vary by computer / device. OverDrive Quickstart Guide

5. What devices can be used?

The Nook, the Kindle, the iPad, many smartphones and more devices can be used. A complete list of compatible devices can be found here: http://overdrive.com/resources/drc.

You can also enjoy ebooks using your Windows PC or Mac computer or laptop with Adobe Digital Editions installed. Adobe Digital Editions

6. How long can I have OverDrive items checked out?

You have the option to check out books for 7 days or 14 days.

7. How many titles can I check out at one time?

You can have up to four books checked out at one time. “Always Available” books, a selection of public domain books, do not count against this limit.

8. Can I place a hold on an item that is currently checked out?

Yes, you can place holds on materials and will be notified by email when the hold is available. You have two days to log into your account and check out the item. The loan period begins upon checkout.

9. Can I renew OverDrive titles?

No, but if an item is not currently on hold for another library user, you can check it out again.

10. Can I return ebooks early?

Yes! Kindle books are returned at Amazon.com by "Managing Your Kindle." EPUB books can be returned via the OverDrive Media Console and Adobe Digital Editions Since PDFs can only be viewed using Adobe Digital Editions, they must be returned through Adobe Digital Editions.

11. Can I check out both the Kindle copy and the non-Kindle copy (EPUB or PDF) of a book?

No. You can only check out one or the other.

12. I received a "Sign-in Error" that says, "We're sorry, but the specified library patron account information is not valid. Patrons has too many items overdue."

It means that you have one or more items that are overdue. You cannot check out OverDrive ebooks if you have any overdue items.