Prepare for an Upgrade: Transition from Overdrive to Libby on May 1, 2023
In the transition from OverDrive to Libby, a digital platform designed to replace the classic OverDrive app and website for eBooks and audiobooks, there is no documented method to export or import your History or Wish Lists manually between the services [2][3][4].
While the migration to Libby offers automatic sync of current loans and holds, the sync does not extend to History or Wish Lists [4]. This means that your borrowing history and wish lists will remain in your OverDrive account or library record, and will not be transferred to Libby.
If you wish to preserve your History and Wish Lists, you will need to manually record that information before any account or platform change. You can save your History on Libby by going to the History section, selecting Actions, and then Email history [4]. To save your wish list, navigate to the Tags section. The Sync Wish Lists notification will provide options to either create a new tag or merge your OverDrive wish list into an existing tag [4].
It's important to note that some personal settings will not automatically transfer over to Libby. If you require assistance or confirmation about your specific account situation, we recommend contacting your library directly [2].
As OverDrive is discontinuing the app on May 1, 2023, we encourage users to ensure their History is set up in Libby before this date. The Libby app will be the new mobile source for digital checkouts and holds for many libraries, including Harris County Public Library [4].
OverDrive is providing details and guides on the switch to the Libby app, and Harris County Public Library staff is available to assist with the transition to Libby [4]. For more information, we recommend visiting the OverDrive and Libby websites or contacting your local library.
| Data Type | Automatic Transfer | Manual Transfer Available | Notes | |------------------|--------------------|---------------------------|---------------------------------------------------| | Current Loans | Yes | No | Current loans sync automatically | | Holds | Yes | No | Holds sync automatically | | Borrowing History| No | No | No official transfer; history stays in OverDrive | | Wish Lists | No | Yes | Manual transfer required; save information before migration |
[1] OverDrive to Libby Transition: What You Need to Know About Saving Your History and Wish Lists. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://help.overdrive.com/customer/en/portal/articles/3802416-overdrive-to-libby-transition-what-you-need-to-know-about-saving-your-history-and-wish-lists
[2] OverDrive to Libby: Frequently Asked Questions. (2021, September 1). Retrieved from https://help.overdrive.com/customer/en/portal/articles/3802403-overdrive-to-libby-frequently-asked-questions
[3] Libby. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.overdrive.com/apps/libby/
[4] Libby Help Centre. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://help.libbyapp.com/
- As you transition from OverDrive to Libby, remember that your borrowing history and wish lists will not be automatically transferred.
- To preserve your audiobook and book wish lists, you can manually save them by going to the Tags section in Libby.
- To continue enjoying your lifestyle and reading habits, it's advisable to also save your book history by selecting Actions and then Email history in the History section of Libby, especially before the OverDrive app is discontinued on May 1, 2023. Additionally, you may find home-and-garden, technology, and other book collections on Libby for a well-rounded digital library experience.
