Kindle and free library downloads

12 years ago

My library just sent a notice that in October Kindle users will be able to download free books using Overdrive.

This just keeps getting better. I love the competition between the e readers because as they try to improve their market share they keep improving options for all of us.

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Comments (14)

User
12 years ago
I have loaned my books through booklending.com. I need to look up our library to see if Canadian libraries are also going to be doing this. Kindle never really said. Only that 10,000 libraries are on board with it.
ravencajun Zone 8b TX
12 years ago
Most libraries have been doing that for some time now, and any one with an ereader that uses epub format has been able to do this, since kindle is so brand specific and only uses their format that is why they have been left behind for all this time. One of the drawbacks of them just being able to use their one type of format.
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Lindsey_CA
12 years ago
With the free Calibre program that you can download, any e-book format can be converted to the Kindle format, so Kindles certainly don't have any disadvantages.

Right now on Amazon.com, they're doing a "Sunshine Sale," with over 600 books in all different genres priced $2.99 or less. Over the last two days, I've gotten about 25 more books. :-)
ravencajun Zone 8b TX
12 years ago
calibre is a great program, which I have recommended many times, but it is just that a separate 3rd party program (for use on a computer) and many people that own a kindle have never heard of calibre, so for them there has been no option. When something is not included and you have to use a separate application to accomplish the task you will have many that just do not know about these things, I have over the years spread the word about calibre but still many will not want to have to try to learn yet one more program. I know I told my sister about it when she got her kindle but she just felt it was above her skill level.
User
12 years ago
I use the following link to convert .pdf books into .mobi (for the Kindle) books. There are option for Nooks, Kobo's and other eReaders as well:

Here is a link that might be useful: onlineconvert.com
momrox4
12 years ago
Wow, Lindsay, thanks for the Amazon tip; I was able to dl a couple that were on my wishlist for an amazing price.
Lindsey_CA
12 years ago
You're welcome, Momrox!
User
12 years ago
I just sent an email to our library. I see they have ebooks for people who own Sony eReaders, but not for Kobo or Kindle. Hopefully I hear back from them soon. A library card is only $12 a year.
liz
12 years ago
I never go anywhere without my kindle...if I think I might even just have 30 minutes of waiting for something it's with me...I have enough books to read for a long while...I love that most of classics are free cause I'm trying to read them as part of my bucket list!...I just downloaded a bunch of "Albert Terhune"...he wrote the "Lad of Sunnybrook" series and being collie lovers they are a great read for hubster and I!

I'll have to see if my library system is part of Overdrive!
monica_pa Grieves
12 years ago
You have to pay for a library card?

Just today, I drove over to our township library and got a card. No cost, and when I mentioned that my purpose for getting one was that I had seen on their website that they would soon be able to offer ebooks for Kindle users via overdrive, the librarian verified it.
donna_loomis
12 years ago
Monica, you said exactly what I was thinking! I had no idea that anyone had to pay a yearly fee for a library card. We pay $1 to get a card, but that is a one-time fee only. I now feel privileged.

I do not have an e-reader, but use Overdrive to download audio books from our library system. I do see that they have a huge library of mobi and epub books, though. Until very recently we were also able to access the library systems of another area in our state for MP3, WMA, mobi and epub books as well. They cut us off just this year because they have determined that our county library system is large enough to be independent. Boo hoo.
abby221
12 years ago
If I buy a book from Amazon do I have to download it to a Kindle or can I download it to an I pad?
User
12 years ago
abby211, if you have the Kindle app on your iPad, you don't need to buy a Kindle.

I don't mind paying $12 a year to read as many books as I want. The money goes towards buying more new books, and upgrades to the public library. My neighbourhood had their completely renovated 2 years ago, because this area uses the library more than any other library in Calgary. It's always very busy. While you may think your library is free, your taxes are paying for it.... :-)
abby221
12 years ago
Thanks for the help Debby. I do have the Kindle app on my i pad so off I go to shop!!!