Last week I posted about how it’s now possible to borrow ebooks from public libraries directly from Kindles using the new updated web browser, and that reminded me how it’s also possible to share library ebooks between Kindle and Kobo ereaders.
This isn’t new but I doubt most people know about it, and it’s not like everyone owns both Kindles and Kobos, but if you do happen to own both you might not know that you can borrow a library ebook and download it to both brands at the same time.
The trick to this is using the same library account on both devices, and then selecting a book that offers a Kindle version from your library.
OverDrive ebooks are offered in different formats, including EPUB and Kindle, but not all are available in Kindle format. If you choose the Kindle option you get directed to Amazon’s website to borrow the Kindle version of the ebook, and once you borrow a book from the library it will automatically appear on Kobo devices that use the same library account.
In order to get the library ebook on both devices, you have to use the Kindle option. It doesn’t work the other way around; checking out a library book on a Kobo device will not make it appear on Kindle devices unless you login to your library account and chose the Kindle version manually. I just think it’s kind of cool how you can borrow an ebook on a Kindle and have it automatically show up on a Kobo ereader without doing anything extra.
It’s also worth noting that you don’t actually have to own or use a Kindle to make this work. You could use the Libby app or a web browser to borrow the Kindle ebook to read using a Kindle app on a phone or tablet as well. Then the book will also sync to Kobo devices that use the same library account.
Isn’t it interesting how this is the only way to get the same DRM protected ebooks on both Kindles and Kobos at the same time? It would be great if buying ebooks worked the same way, without purchased ebooks being locked to certain devices and apps.
Really need more explanation. I’m good with the Kindle part. But how do I set up my library account on my Kobo?
This article is a bit old but I think the process is still the same: How to Borrow Library eBooks on Kobo eReaders Using OverDrive.