Story provided by Stillwater Public Library
The OverDrive app, the first app that gave patrons access to the Oklahoma Virtual Library (OKVL), will be discontinued on May 1, 2023. OKVL users that have not already switched to OverDrive’s newer app, Libby, can attend a free program at the Stillwater Public Library to learn how to install and navigate Libby to borrow eBooks and eAudiobooks. The free program takes place on Thursday, April 27, from 6-7 p.m. Registration is required, and attendees must bring their preferred reading or listening device – tablets, eReaders or smartphones.
Emily States, adult services librarian, knows that making the switch to a new app can be challenging.
“You get used to doing things a certain way, and then everything changes,” States said. “I know it can be frustrating, but your librarians are here to help.”
The one exception to the switch is for Kindle Fire users. The Libby app has not yet been accepted into the Amazon Appstore, so the OverDrive app will remain available for Kindle Fire users to download and access until further notice.
However, Kindle Fire users can download the Libby app onto their device manually from OverDrive’s website or have Kindle Books delivered to their Fire tablet from a device that supports libbyapp.com.
Library staff will also assist Kindle Fire users at the program who want to go ahead and transition to the Libby app, as well as patrons wanting tips for reading on their computers via libbyapp.com.
Beyond installation and basic navigation, the program will also cover how to use push notifications for notices regarding holds, use tags to create wish lists, share one device with multiple library cards and many other topics.
Anyone who cannot attend the program but would like help using the OKVL, Libby or OverDrive (on Kind Fire) can also stop by the library’s adult help desk with their device or call (405) 372-3633 x8106 to schedule a one-on-one tech tutoring appointment.
“We want to make using the library – both the physical library and the virtual one – as easy for our patrons as possible,” States said. “We all have different levels of comfort with technology. Wherever you’re at, we will try to meet you there.”
Registration is required at library.stillwater.org/register.php. Information about the eLibary, including links to OKVL, help pages, video tutorials and instructions are available at library.stillwater.org/eLibrary.php.
The Stillwater Public Library is located at 1107 S. Duck St. Library hours are Monday- Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.