How to get set up to use Overdrive on a computer

Download 1000s of ebooks and audiobooks with OverDrive to your computer and then transfer to a portable device such as an MP3 player or ebook reader. Alternatively read ebooks on your computer with Overdrive Read  - no downloading or software installation needed. You can borrow five books at a time, choose between a 7, 14 or 21 day loan period, reserve items that are on loan and automatic returns mean no fines!

Before you use OverDrive for the first time you must do the following:
A. Check whether your device is compatible
If you want to transfer an ebook or audiobook to an MP3 player or ebook reader you will need to check it is on the list of compatible devices. If you plan to use the Overdrive Read facility  please note that you will be required to install a Google Chrome plugin if using Internet Explorer 9 or lower. The best option is to use  another browser such as Firefox, Google Chrome, Safari or Internet Explorer 10 or above.

B. Register for eBook use
Before you can use OverDrive you must upgrade your membership for ebook usage. To do this - email your Edinburgh address (home, work or study) and library card number to informationdigital@edinburgh.gov.uk.  Alternatively visit a library with proof of your residence within the EH postcode area (a current utility bill or drivers license etc). You will also need to know your four digit PIN number to use Overdrive – if you don't know it remember to ask staff to look it up for you next time you are in the library.

C. Install software
1.To download eBooks – to transfer ebooks to an ebook reader you will need to install Adobe Digital Editions on your computer. You will be prompted to authorize it by creating an Adobe ID account. It will require an email address and ask you to create a password. You will only need to do this once.

N.B. If you want to read ebooks on your computer (and not transfer them to an ereader) you can use the Overdrive Read facility so you don’t need to install Digital Editions. Overdrive Read is available for most of our ebooks.

2. To download audiobooks - install OverDrive Media Console on your computer

Now you are ready to find out How to Use OverDrive

Further help with OverDrive

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