Bring first in line for new book releases in digital and audio format from the library is a great way to save money. Libby is a free app available through the public library system in the U.S. and is very user-friendly. All you need is a library card from your local branch or one of the branches that allows memberships from non-residents.
A quick note! I am searching in the NC Cardinal library system, which is a consortium of counties in North Carolina (in the U.S.). Your county and state may look a little different, but the concepts should still apply.
First, start your search for a book that has not yet published. Search for the author or book title. Don’t be discouraged if there are no search results yet.
Next, go into the filters and select “deep search” from the options. You may see additional titles appear.
If you see your desired book, congratulations! You are one step closer to being first in line.
Click “Notify Me” for each format you are interested in (ebook, audiobook)
If you don’t see your desired book, check back again closer to the publication date as new titles are being loaded all the time.
Once you’ve selected “Notify Me” you can find this book in your tags shelf.
When the title and format is available at your library, you will get a notification that is is available to hold or borrow. (Make sure you enable notifications!)
The you can borrow or place a hold, whichever is available. Sometimes they make books available for hold prior to publication date – that is the best!
I am usually in the first 1-5 positions for a book with this approach. Good luck!!
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me or leave them in the comments. Happy reading!
That’s awesome! Thanks for the advice!
You’re most welcome!