OverDrive for Kindle users just got MUCH easier

OverDrive and Amazon have updated the way that Kindle owners can find and borrow titles to read on their device. Not all publishers allow their books in Kindle format, but the majority of the titles we have purchased at OverDrive are available for Kindle.Which means they are compatible with eReaders like the e-Ink style Paperwhite or the Kindle Fire color tablet. In fact, you don't even need a Kindle!

Many patrons prefer reading  in a Kindle Reading app installed on a mobile device like an iPad or even on a computer. Someone who might read on their phone while riding the bus and then later on their laptop likes having Kindle sync to the last point read on all of their devices. No bookmarks necessary.

What do you need to know to help patrons?  Here's what's NEW and what is the SAME:

No need to choose Kindle format before borrowing

Step 1
When Browsing, there is now a Kindle collection [only] to choose.When searching, Kindle Format is now a prominent link in results. When patrons use these, find a book they want and Borrow it - the Kindle Book will be the first format option presented on their Loans page.  NEW   

Step 1-A
The all-Kindle-all-the-time patron will want to know they can set their OverDrive account to ONLY show them Kindle titles. Kindle will be the only choice on their Loans page.  This is important for patrons who use our APL app to place holds, or they may get the EPUB format default.  NEW 

Step 2

Users still must complete the loan at Amazon, with their own Amazon account. If their Kindle device cannot access the open web (have only the Kindle 3G connection to BUY Kindle books) they will need to do this on a computer. An OverDrive title, like any Kindle book, can be "delivered" to a specific Kindle eReader, or Kindle app on a  mobile device or computer.   SAME

 

Step 3

Patrons can use their own or our public PCs  to deliver the OverDrive title to their Kindle, but they DO need to know their Amazon account email and password. Once signed in to Amazon, they just find the Kindle Store and then click on the page called “Manage Your Content and Devices.”  Then click in the box for “Actions” next to the OverDrive title. Choose Deliver to…and the name of the device or location of Kindle or Kindle app.      SAME

Want to return a Kindle book early? This cannot be done from the OverDrive Account or Loans page. 

Go back to Amazon's “Manage Your Content and Devices” and choose Return this book.

SAME



See the OverDrive Help site for more info about managing Kindle titles at Amazon
Click here to print an OverDrive tip sheet for Kindle.