eBooks & Bridges

screenshot of Bridges interfaceWhat is Bridges?

Bridges is what we call our free ebook service! Technically, it’s a consortium of Iowa libraries that work together to provide access to free digital content using the OverDrive platform.

Explore the Bridges catalog online using the Libby app right in your browser!

The shared catalog provides access to over 90,000 titles, including:

  • ebooks
  • downloadable audiobooks (think Audible, but FREE!)
  • magazines
  • videos

You can also visit the old OverDrive page at bridges.overdrive.com.

How do I access Bridges?

You can read and listen to books, browse magazines, and watch videos on any of your devices, from the comfort of your own home.  You do not need a special ebook reader, and you don’t even need to come to the library.

All the following devices are compatible with Bridges:

  • phone
  • tablet
  • ebook reader (Kindle, Nook)
  • laptop
  • desktop computer

Who can use Bridges?

To use your WBPL library card to access Bridges, you must:

  • Live within the city limits of West Branch
  • OR live in an unincorporated part of Cedar County

If you don’t meet one of these qualifications, you can still bet free ebooks but you’ll have to use the card from your home library.

How to use Bridges:

  1. Install the app Libby by OverDrive, available in your device’s app store.  On a computer, you can access Bridges using a browser.
  2. Log in using your patron ID (barcode located on the back of your library card) and your phone number as your password.
    (See our page on Accessing Your Library Account for help logging in.)
  3. Follow the instructions on-screen to get set up.
  4. Search for a book or browse the curated lists Bridges has provided.
  5. Click Borrow and start reading!

WBPL can help you get started

Library staff are happy to help new users get set up!  It’s what we’re here for.

Stop in the library any time we are open.  It wouldn’t hurt to call or email ahead first to make sure we’re not busy with a program.

What to bring:

  • The device you want to read or listen on – phone, tablet, kindle, laptop
  • Login and password to your app store account – usually your Google or Apple ID
  • Amazon.com login and password if you’re using a Kindle

If you still have questions but you can’t make it to the library, check out our printable guide below: