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eBooks: Kindle

Basic Information

Basic Information

  • You can check out up to 6 ebooks per library card at a time, and each eBook has a limit of 1 renewal.
  • All eBooks are free to download.
  • Titles are automatically returned at the end of the borrowing period, so there are no late fees for any digital materials!
  • eBooks can only be downloaded by patrons with a Waukegan Public Library card in good standing (unexpired, fines less than $10).
  • eBooks and other digital materials cannot be checked out or requested from other libraries.
  • If a title is already checked out by someone, you may place a hold on it just like you would with a physical book.

Contact the Reference Department

Need help?  Contact the Reference Department for direct assistance with downloading library materials to your device!

847-623-2041 x238

wkgnref@waukeganpl.info

Not a Waukegan card holder?

You need an active Waukegan Public Library card to download digital materials. If you live in Waukegan and don’t have a library card, get one! If you live outside Waukegan, try contacting your home library to learn about their eBook collection.

Download an eBook

1. Search for an eBook.

Visit waukegan.overdrive.com to view the OverDrive eBook collection.  You can search for a specific title or browse for books by subject or collection.

2. Select a book.

When you find a book you want to read, click on the circle to read a sample or get more information about the title, or just click Borrow.

3. View checked out titles.

Log in with your library card number.  Once the book has been checked out, a blue message will appear at the top of your screen.  Click Loans to view your checked out titles.

4. Choose a format.

Click Choose Format and select Kindle Book.  This will automatically direct you to Amazon.com.

5. Get book from Amazon.com

Once you have been redirected to Amazon, select your device and click Get Library Book.  Note: If you are not already signed in to your Amazon account, you will be prompted to do so, and will be able to select your device on the next screen.

7. Transfer eBook to your Kindle.

If you have access to a WiFi connection, turn on your Kindle and sync it.  Your book should show up in your Kindle library automatically.  If you do not have access to a WiFi connection, connect your Kindle to the computer with a USB cord and click Download Now.  The book will be transferred to your Kindle manually.

8. Return eBook early.

Log in to your Amazon account and tap the menu that says Accounts and Lists.  Tap Manage Your Content and Devices

Click the Actions button next to the title you want to return early.  Click Return to Library.  Click Yes when it asks if you're sure you want to return the book.

Need help? Contact the Reference Desk at 847-623-2041 x238 or wkgnref@waukeganpl.info ! If you have a laptop or a mobile device, you can also bring in your device to the Reference Desk for in-person assistance.

Want More Help?

OverDrive has a great support website with helpful articles and how-to videos to help you download eBooks and troubleshoot any issues.

You can also find information about OverDrive specific to your device: