Overdrive has discontinued its main app, Overdrive Media Console, for Android and iOS. As of last month, the app is no longer listed on Google Play in the Apple App Store. Existing users who have the app can use it until the end of the year, when all services will be shut down. Overdrive encourages users to switch to Libby, the new app they launched a few years ago. It offers a better audiobook, ebook and magazine experience. US users can use the app to send digital content directly to a Kindle.
Libby is currently not available for download from the Amazon Appstore. OverDrive has requested information and a timeline for approval from Amazon, but has not yet received an update. Meanwhile, Kindle Fire users can stream ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines in their browser libbyapp.com
What I like about the Libby app is the ability to apply for a library card right in the app. It’s a lot better than going to your local branch with a few bills and getting a card the old-fashioned way. After all, most people just get their payment receipts sent to their email address and don’t even get physical paper anymore.
How will the elimination of the Overdrive app affect Kobo e-readers? Kobo has a partnership with Overdrive. Kobo eReader users can access the settings menu, attach their library card and a four-digit PIN number. Once that’s done, the home screen has a new entry that lists the local branch and can see their recommendations or even search for a specific title. Borrowing, reading, and returning is all done on the Kobo without having to use an app or computer. Will Kobo eventually use the Libby system? I asked her about it and haven’t heard anything yet.
Michael Kozlowski has been writing about audio books and e-readers for twelve years. His articles have been picked up by major and local news sources and websites such as CBC, CNET, Engadget, Huffington Post and the New York Times. He lives in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
