Can I get library eBooks with an eReader?

If an eReader does not support installing apps from these app stores, it won't work. Only a few are available via the Amazon Appstore. Moreover, they are only available via the Apple store or the Google Play Store. Mostly, these apps do not work well with eReader platforms since they are usually made only for the iOS or Android. A few examples here are Axis 360, Hoopla, and Libby (Overdrive). This means you need to download those Apps onto your own devices in order to access and enjoy the content. Online resources for eBooks and eAudiobooks are best accessed via their own native Apps if they have one. All of these make up most of the items in our A-Z resources list. Instead, libraries subscribe to online resource products from third party providers. Public libraries do not usually purchase and own online resources like eBooks one by one as we do with printed books due to licensing restrictions and costs. Some of you may not be aware of this, but libraries operate online-resource collections quite differently from our print collection.Īs defined in our Collection Development Policy, “an electronic-resource collection is a collection of items in the form of online databases, e-books, streaming music, video and audiobooks, and various other services made available online.” I call them library apps, but these are not developed or maintained by the Library. Why eReaders do not work well with library resources?ĮReader screens are best for your eyes, but their ecosystem does not work well with library eBook apps. If you do not mind the small screen, an Android phone or an iPhone will do the job as well.

Our advice has been that if you really want to enjoy the complete library eBook collection, please consider using a modern Android tablet or an iPad instead. We receive many queries on how to use eReaders, like a Kindle Paperwhite or a Kobo, with library eBooks.

None of them works well enough to be considered the 'best.'

Libby on kindle paperwhite