If you have an Ebook reader then try using this very simple and Free method of linking with your local library

Submitted by Jonathan on Fri, 10/21/2011 - 08:12

 

Ebooks have proved once and for all that the most important aspect of books is the content. Few of us who have made the switch to digital reading would ever go back to dead-tree physical books, which is great news for the environment.

But unlike physical books (which, we have to admit, do look rather good on a shelf), ebooks just become names on a digital list after you've read them. Not pretty, not impressive and utterly redundant.

So, instead of buying, why not borrow? It's not widely publicised, but Britain is one of the world's best-served nations when it comes to digital lending, as most of our libraries have signed up to provide books through the DRM-managed OverDrive system.

Here, we'll show you how to fall in love with your local lending library all over again... without even having to go there!

Install OverDrive

Download the version of OverDrive Media Console for your device. We've supplied the necessary links below so you don't need to go looking for it.

  • http://reviews.cnet.co.uk/images/base/arrow-red.png); background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 12px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; background-position: 0px 4px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; ">For iOS users it's a universal app, so a single download will install on both the iPhone and iPad. Grab it fromhere on the App Store.
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  • http://reviews.cnet.co.uk/images/base/arrow-red.png); background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; font-size: 12px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 15px; vertical-align: baseline; background-position: 0px 4px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; ">Windows and Mac users who want to read books on their regular computers can download versions for each operating system through the OverDrive Software page.

When first installed, the only thing on your digital bookshelf is a welcome message. To borrow books you'll first need to add your local library.

Obviously you need to be a member of your library, as it needs some way of tracking how its budget is spent, so dig out your library card and then tap the Get Books+ button on the OverDrive toolbar, followed by Add a Library.

The OverDrive system maintains an extensive database of libraries around the world, so if you're a member of more than one -- perhaps one at home and one where you're studying -- you can add several to your account. Enter a search term, such as the name of your local authority or council, or tap Browse for Libraries, then dig through the list of results until you find your local library.