We actually have TWO different online libraries that you can check out books from!
In both cases, you need access to the internet to initially download the books, but once a book is downloaded, you do not need to be connected to the internet to read it.
If you have a valid library card, you are already set up to use these libraries. Just use the barcode number on your library card. Your default PIN number is the last 4 digits of your library card number.
The first is called “Library on the Go,” and it’s run through a company called “Overdrive.” They’re the most widely-used system nationwide, so if you’ve ever checked out ebooks from another library, you may recognize it. We belong to Library on the Go along with many other libraries in the Central Illinois area (what used to be called Rolling Prairie).
Features of Library on the Go:
- Check out up to 5 books at a time
- Books due in 2 weeks
- Download e-books in EPUB or Kindle formats
- Download audiobooks in mp3 format
- Read/listen in the browser with “Overdrive Read” and “Overdrive Listen”
- Can use with all tablets, smartphones, and standard e-readers
- Can place holds on checked-out items
- Can renew items (within 3 days of due date)
- Can place items on a “wish list” for future reference
The second is called “eRead Illinois,” which is run through a platform called “Cloud Library.” We belong to eRead Illinois with many other libraries in our Illinois Heartland system.
Features of eRead Illinois:
- Check out up to 5 books at a time
- Books due in 3 weeks
- Download and read e-books and audiobooks in app only
- Can use with all tablets, smartphones (but not standard e-readers like Kindle or Nook)
- Can place holds on checked-out items