Libby at the State Library

Summer’s here, but if you’re anything like me, reading isn’t just a summer thing--it’s a year-round, everyday habit (occupational hazard, maybe?). I’m usually reading a minimum of at least two books at a time and always on the lookout for something new—whether it’s from a favorite author, someone I’ve just discovered, or on a favorite topic. If you haven’t tried it yet, Goodreads is a great way to keep track of what you’ve read, what you want to put on your TBR list, and get some pretty great recommendations too.

In last week's blog post, we covered how to request books from our print collections. But honestly? I don’t love lugging around multiple books everywhere I go. That’s why I’m a little obsessed with my Kindle—it’s always with me, whether I’m commuting, traveling, or just reading at home.

Wondering where I get all those eBooks? I use the OverDrive Libby app (download from your favorite app store)! In the app I can borrow eBooks (or audiobooks and even e-magazines if you prefer!), place holds and keep them coming straight to my e-reader. Super easy, super convenient, and best of all, super lightweight! What you may not know is that your State Library card entitles you to borrow eContent (books, audiobooks, and magazines) from not just our CW MARS network libraries, but also five other partner library networks in Massachusetts as well as the Boston Public Library. By adding these libraries to your Libby account, you can search, browse, and check out items from their digital collections. Here’s how to add those libraries in the Libby app:

• Open the Libby app
• Tap the menu icon (☰)
• Scroll down and tap "Add Library"
• Search for and select any of the following:
• CLAMS
• Minuteman Library Network
• NOBLE
• Old Colony Library Network
• SAILS
• Boston Public Library
• Tap "Sign In With My Card"
• Expand the list and choose “CW MARS Patrons”
• Enter your library card number information and password [Forgot your password? Reset it in our online catalog]
• Tap "Next" to start browsing that network’s collection
• Repeat these steps to add more networks and the Boston Public Library, Libby will remember them for you!

Then just use Libby’s search feature to look up a specific author or title—or if you’re in the mood to browse, click on the buttons for “newest” or “popular” for some great picks. While you’re exploring, you can switch between different library networks by tapping the little library card icon on a book’s page.

Adding all these collections gives you way more options for placing holds or borrowing, which means less waiting around for the books you want! Libby even shows you which libraries have a copy, how long the wait is, and if you’re lucky, you might even find one that’s available to borrow right away! Questions? Need help? Contact us at reference.department@mass.gov

Judy Carlstrom
Head of Technical Services