Kobo eReaders integrating Overdrive for easy way to borrow eBooks from libraries

Borrowing eBooks has never been easier: Readers can connect to their local public libraries right from their device with built-in, one-touch lending access. Set-up is free and easy, all that’s needed is a library card from any OverDrive-powered library, and through an integrated catalogue, booklovers can search for the title they want, and depending on the title, choose either to borrow or buy with just one click.

Kobo launched its premium Aura ONE device with one-touch library eBook access, and saw a significant increase in reading time among those customers who also read library books, and that’s what it’s all about.

“As we grow as a company, we are always trying to keep the reader’s entire reading life in mind – where and when do they read, how can we make accessing eBooks easier, how can we combine beautiful design while pushing the envelope of what technology can do. Everything we do is for the reader,” said Michael Tamblyn, CEO, Rakuten Kobo. “The insights and feedback gleaned from readers on our most premium device showed that those who borrowed eBooks directly from their public library on average read 30% more than those who did not use the library feature. Avid readers clearly appreciate the easy access to more books. As a result, we have rolled out the feature to our entire current eReader lineup. We want everyone to be able to access the stories they love, however they want to read them.”

See how to get started with Kobo and OverDrive here.