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E-Books Collections & Readers

The Overdrive Pleasure Reading Collection

Most of Swarthmore's collection is pretty scholarly, but we have a small digital collection of popular novels and non-fiction for those few cozy hours vouchsafed to the serious scholar. These e-books and audiobooks are available through OverDrive, which is also available through the public library. New titles are added regularly!

Just getting started? Sign up for an account.

Already have an account? Connect to OverDrive to see what's currently available or log in to the OverDrive app on your mobile device.

Double your fun! Connect your public library card to your OverDrive account to expand your selection.

Getting Started

Please note that access to Libby and OverDrive through Swarthmore College is only available to current students, faculty, and staff.

OverDrive, a platform for e-books and audiobooks, is easy to use. From your computer, navigate to OverDrive and click "sign in" in the top right-hand corner. You will be directed to sign in with your Swarthmore credentials:

The Swarthmore single sign-on screen.

After signing in, you're all set to start reading. You can also set your account preferences through your browser (such as favorite genres and libraries) or in the Libby app. Accessing via the web works best for use with screen readers.


From your mobile device, download the Libby app. When it asks you if you have a library card, select "yes" and then select "I'll search for a library". Search for and select "Swarthmore College."

The Libby app     The Libby app     The Libby app

If you already have Libby installed on your device for another library, tap the Libby icon in the top right corner to open up the menu with your library cards. Tap "Add a library." Search for and select "Swarthmore College."

The Libby screen for Swarthmore College     The Libby app     The Libby app

You will then be prompted to enter your account details, which involves signing in with your Swarthmore credentials, including Duo.

The Libby app     The Libby app

You're now set up to start reading in OverDrive. You can borrow up to 3 books at a time; if a book is not currently available, you can place a hold on it to be next in line.

The Libby app


To connect your public library account, tap the Libby icon in the top right corner to open up the menu with your library cards. Tap "Add a library." Search for and select Swarthmore Public Library or your local library. You will need to enter the barcode on the back of your library card in order to sign in.

Questions? Problems? Let us know.