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OverDrive eBooks and Audiobooks

OverDrive Basics

Who can access OverDrive?

Any current University of Wisconsin faculty, student or staff member can borrow books from OverDrive.

Do I need to create an OverDrive account?

No. You do not need to create a separate OverDrive account. Your UW credentials are enough.

Do I have to download any software or apps to use OverDrive?

No. You can read and listen to books on your laptop or computer via a web browser. 

Can I use a Kindle to read books from OverDrive?

Yes, after you borrow a title, select 'Read now with Kindle' and login to your Amazon account. 

What if I use OverDrive and the Libby app with another library system?

In the Libby menu, tap 'Add a Library.'

Can I download books to read offline? 

Yes, loans are automatically downloaded for offline use if you are on Wifi. 

Getting Started with OverDrive

To create your account: Borrow ebooks and audiobooks.  Try Library the one tap reading app

  1. Navigate to your library's OverDrive collection
    1. Download the Libby app if you are using a mobile device. 
  2. Search for the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.
  3. Login with your UW-W netID and password.

 

To read or listen to a book:

  1. Browse or search titles.
  2. Click 'Borrow.'  Tap the book cover to start reading in Libby.
  3. Place a hold to join the waitlist if a book is not available.

Add another library to Libby

  1. Tap the magnifying glass
  2. Then tap the name of the library you currently use
  3. Tap "Add Library" button at the bottom of the app
  4. (If you see the option, “Can I use your precise location…?” Answer “No”)
  5. Search “University of Wisconsin System…”
  6. You will be prompted to select UW-Whitewater from a dropdown menu and log in with your Net-ID and password

NOTE:  Each library is a distinct entity with their own collection, so when you search you will have to search each library separately.  Simply click on the library name to search their collection.

Screen snips of steps 1, 2, and 3

Loan FAQs

How long can I borrow books?

eBooks: 7, 14, or 21 days

Audiobooks: 7, 14, or 21 days

How many books can I borrow at one time?

Up to 5 books at once

What if I want to borrow a book that is checked out?

Put a hold on the book in OverDrive. You will receive a notification when the book is available.

How many holds can I have at one time?

Up to 5 books at a time

How do I renew books?

Renew a book from your Loans page before it is due. Request the book again if there are holds.

How do I return books?

Books are automatically returned on the due date, but you can return a book early.

Are all formats available for all books?

No. Format availability varies by book.

Help

How can I get more help?

Contact your UW Library, visit OverDrive's help page, or click an image below.

Get Help with Ebooks!Need Help with Audiobooks?  Click HereClick Here for Help with the Overdrive Mobile App