What is an Overdrive Account and why do I need one?

An Overdrive Account is necessary to take advantage of the features available through the Overdrive app on your tablet or Windows 10 computer. This allows the library user to download and open E-books and Downloadable Audiobooks to use on the above devices. If you signed in with an Overdrive account, you do not need an Adobe ID (see below).

An Adobe ID is an account created through the Adobe.com website. It allows the library user to download and open E-books that are DRM (Digital Rights Management) -protected. This is the ID you will need if you are using Adobe Digital Editions software on your computer to transfer E-books to E-readers.

OverdriveRead is the website interface to read E-books on your web browser. Since you are not downloading the E-book, this requires you to be constantly connected to the Internet while you are reading. OverdriveRead is very useful if you are unable, or unwilling, to use the apps or software required to download E-books you have borrowed.

OverdriveListen is the same as OverdriveRead - but for Audiobooks. You can listen to Downloadable Audiobooks on your web browser without the need for extra apps or software. Also, like OverdriveRead you require a constant Internet connection while you listen. Click on this link for browser compatibility: http://help.overdrive.com/customer/en/portal/articles/1932988-what-devic...

You can use up to 6 separate devices to read or listen to digital items from Overdrive, as long as the devices are authorized with the same Overdrive Account or Adobe ID.

E-books are available from the Ottawa Public Library in English, French and Chinese.

E-books and Downloadable Audiobooks from third parties should work with Overdrive if the formats are EPUB or MP3. However, if the items are used on an app, you risk losing acces to these files if the app is deleted from the device.

If you have downloaded an E-book or Downloadable Audiobook to your device, you can travel with them anywhere. However, if you are using OverdriveRead or OverdriveListen, you will need a consistent Internet connection.

If an E-Book or Downloadable Audiobook is not available to borrow, you can place a hold. This is similar to requesting physical items at the library. Be sure to include an e-mail address, if you have not done so already, so you can be notified when the item becomes available to you. You have the option to 'auto-checkout' a hold when it becomes available. Or, if you prefer to checkout the item yourself, you only have four (4) days (96 hours) to do so once a hold has been made available.

Yes, you can suspend your holds for a period of 7 to 90 days.