This guide is for newer Kobo models such as the Kobo Libra, Forma, Aura ONE, Aura Edition 2, and Clara HD.
Troubleshooting Syncing and Downloading Issues
Some library ebooks may not sync to your Kobo e-reader.
To sync properly, an ebook in the ORL’s Digital Collection must match the Kobo Store version in the following ways:
- Cover image
- ISBN
- Publisher
- Release date
If these details do not match, the ebook may not appear on your Kobo.
Seeing a “There seems to be a problem…” message on your Kobo?
If you receive this message while checking out a library ebook, try checking out the title from the Libby app or the ORL Digital Collection, then re-sync your Kobo. If the book still doesn’t appear in your “My Books” list, please follow the Kobo Help instructions.
If your ebook won’t sync to Kobo:
- Use the Read now in browser option from your Checked Out page in the ORL catalogue or Loans Page on OverDrive.
- Or, download the Libby app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device to read the book there.
Step-by-Step: Borrowing Library Ebooks on Kobo
Step 1: Set up your Kobo for Library Borrowing
- From your Kobo Home screen, tap the Menu icon (≡)
- Tap Settings > OverDrive > Get Started
- Tap Sign in to OverDrive
- Search for and select Okanagan Regional Library
- Choose any branch to continue
- In the library login screen:
- Expand the Select your Library dropdown
- Choose Okanagan Regional Library
- Enter your library card number (no spaces) and PIN
- Tap Sign In
You’ll see a confirmation screen. Tap Browse to explore the collection or Search for a specific title.
Step 2: Search for Library Books on Kobo
- Tap the Search icon (magnifying glass)
- Tap the arrow to expand the dropdown menu
- Select OverDrive
- Enter a title, author, or series
- Results will show only ebooks available in the ORL’s OverDrive collection
Note: Some library ebooks may not appear in Kobo search results if they’re not available in the Kobo Store. You can still borrow them from the ORL’s Digital Collection and read them in your browser.
Step 3: Borrow or Place Holds on Books
- Tap a book cover to open its details
- Tap the More icon (⋯) > Borrow if available
- If the book is checked out, tap Place Hold
- Confirm your hold by tapping Yes, then use the back arrow to return
After borrowing, tap:
- Go to Books to start reading
- Shop Kobo to continue browsing
Borrowed titles appear in My Books.
To borrow a book you’ve placed on hold:
- Tap the Menu icon (≡) > Kobo Store > OverDrive
- Tap Your Holds
- Tap Borrow next to the title
- The book will now appear in My Books
Step 4: Renew Your Ebook
- From Home, tap My Books
- Long-press the title and tap Request Again
If no one else is waiting, the ebook will be renewed after the current loan period. If there are holds, you’ll be placed on the waitlist.
Step 5: Return Your Ebook Early
- From Home, tap My Books
- Long-press the ebook and tap Return
- In the confirmation popup, tap Return again
A preview version may remain under My Books. Long-press and tap Remove > Remove from My Books
Note: Titles in Open EPUB format cannot be returned early.
Need More Help?
Call us at 1-844-649-8127
Email help@orl.bc.ca and include:
- Any error messages
- Your ORL library card number
- Title(s) you’re trying to borrow
- The type of device you’re using
- Your computer’s operating system
- Mention that you’re using the ORL ebooks collection
Note: If your library card has expired, you won’t be able to borrow until it’s renewed. please contact your local branch to update your card.