The Power of Library Distribution: An Interview with OverDrive

Libraries have always connected readers with books, and in the digital age, they offer even more opportunities for authors and publishers. Digital library platforms help expand your audience, increase visibility, and generate revenue while supporting public access to literature. Millions of readers search library catalogs daily, making library distribution a powerful tool for discoverability and sales.

StreetLib helps publishers and indie authors reach libraries worldwide through OverDrive, one of the key platforms in digital library distribution.

What’s OverDrive?

Founded in 1986 by Steve Potash and based in Cleveland, Ohio, OverDrive is the leading digital reading platform for libraries and schools worldwide. With a vast network of over 87,000 libraries and institutions across 115+ countries, it provides access to a diverse catalog of eBooks, audiobooks, and other digital media. 

At the heart of OverDrive’s library experience is Libby, its app designed for borrowing and reading eBooks and audiobooks. Libby offers an intuitive, user-friendly experience, making it easier than ever for readers to discover new books, borrow them instantly, and enjoy them on any device.

To explore how OverDrive connects publishers and indie authors with libraries and readers worldwide, we spoke with Laurelie Schrab, Account Manager at OverDrive, about the impact of digital library distribution.

The Interview

OverDrive serves libraries in 115+ countries: how does this global reach create opportunities for authors and publishers, and what should they consider when expanding internationally?
OverDrive’s global network of over 87,000 libraries and schools opens the door for authors and publishers to reach millions of readers worldwide. This scale means books can gain traction across multiple markets and reach previously untapped audiences. In 2024, more than 9.1 million people installed the Libby app, and over 118.9 million new users joined library systems globally, signaling the continued expansion of digital library services.

With audiobooks on the rise, how important is it for authors and publishers to include audio in their library distribution, and how does OverDrive support this trend?
Audiobooks are one of the fastest-growing formats in the digital space, particularly among younger readers and multitaskers who prefer to listen on the go. At OverDrive, we’ve seen substantial growth in audiobook circulation year-over-year in public, school, and academic libraries, and libraries are increasingly investing in audio to meet demand. In 2024, over 278 million audiobooks were borrowed across OverDrive’s global network, representing a 19% increase from 2023. While ebook lending also saw significant growth across OverDrive’s global network with a 7% increase, its clear consumers are increasingly turning to audiobooks.

OverDrive’s platforms make it easy for librarians and patrons alike to make the most of audiobooks. Librarians can curate audiobook lists so readers can find them easily. OverDrive’s apps also allow users to easily search by format and audiobook duration for super simple browsing and borrowing. Libby and Sora’s audiobook players also support many user-customizable features such as a sleep timer, speed control, bookmarking, offline listening, and integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

What are the key differences between selling to libraries and retail stores, and how do pricing and royalties work when distributing through OverDrive?
Selling to libraries differs from retail in that libraries purchase digital titles with lending models designed for community access. Publishers can choose from various models in OverDrive Marketplace—such as one copy/one user (OC/OU), metered access (based on time or checkouts), cost-per-circ, or subscriptions which allow simultaneous use. This flexibility enables libraries to align their budgets and patron demand. Royalties are determined by the publisher’s agreement with OveDrive and based on the lending model selected and usage.

Why should independent authors and publishers consider distributing their books through OverDrive?
Libraries are discovery engines. Through OverDrive, indie authors and publishers can access a highly engaged audience that values quality storytelling, diverse voices, and community relevance. Titles available in Libby and Sora can gain visibility through curated collections, reading programs, and library staff recommendations. In fact, libraries often drive word-of-mouth momentum, reviews, and retail sales. For independent authors, having your book available at the library is not only about access—it’s about discoverability and longevity.

What are some success stories or trends you’ve seen in library distribution that authors should know about?
One standout success story is Big Library Read (BLR)—the world’s first global virtual book club. Facilitated by OverDrive, BLR connects readers around the world with the same ebook at the same time, with no waitlists or holds. This program is free to users through their local public or school library and only requires a library card or student ID to participate.

For authors and publishers, BLR offers a unique opportunity to gain massive visibility. Each selected title is made available as a Simultaneous Use license for a limited time, typically two weeks. During this period, we've consistently seen significant spikes in Goodreads adds, Amazon sales, and hundreds of thousands of library checkouts. This exposure not only boosts discoverability but can also drive long-term engagement with the author’s catalog.

From a library perspective, BLR helps increase circulation metrics—key data points for reporting and funding—while also serving as a powerful user acquisition and engagement tool. Because the program is promoted directly to end-users, it often introduces new readers to the library ecosystem. BLR exemplifies how OverDrive supports both suppliers and customers by creating meaningful, measurable impact. It’s a program that underscores OverDrive’s commitment to driving success for its partners and offering something truly unique in the digital library space.

OverDrive offers many initiatives to help authors and publishers connect with readers, with the Libby Book Awards being the latest. What other promotional opportunities do you offer, and what advice do you have for indie authors and publishers looking to stand out?
OverDrive offers numerous initiatives designed to connect readers with content they’ll love, including seasonal promotions, themed collections, and curated lists managed by staff librarians. The Libby Book Awards, Big Library Read, and various regional book clubs such as Leselounge mit Libby in Germany and the Together We Read book clubs across the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and UK offer visibility to titles with broad appeal.

The Leselounge mit Libby book club features title by an author in the DACH region available to all participating libraries for a two-week period with no waitlist or holds. OverDrive promotes the title on social media, email newsletters to libraries, and with a landing page of marketing materials. It's great exposure for the author and publisher to OverDrive’s engaged audience. Since launching the book club in the DACH region in 2023, it has generated more than 18,000 checkouts for the featured titles.

For indie authors looking to stand out, OverDrive recommends taking advantage of the various online communities where readers thrive such as BookTok, Bookstagram, and platforms like Fable and StoryGraph. Publishers interested in participating in OverDrive promotional activities should contact the OverDrive content team.

Conclusion

Library distribution with OverDrive offers authors the opportunity to connect with dedicated readers who borrow eBooks and audiobooks from their local libraries. This channel provides consistent exposure and sales, especially in high-demand areas or specific genres. With the StreetLib Pro Plan, you can expand your reach and ensure your books are available to readers across thousands of libraries worldwide.

We’d like to thank Laurelie Schrab and the OverDrive team for sharing valuable insights on digital library distribution. We hope their expertise will help you expand your global reach, engage with a growing audience, and make the most of the opportunities available through library distribution.