How to Use LA County E-Books and Resources

May 28 / Tao Morales

How to Use LA County E-Books and Resources

The LA County Library offers a wealth of free online resources that you can access from anywhere with your library card. With just a computer, tablet, or smartphone and your LA County Library card and PIN, you can borrow e-books, audiobooks, magazines, movies, music, and even explore learning tools for all ages. These digital resources are available 24/7, so you can enjoy them whenever it’s convenient for you.

LA County Library cards displayed on a wooden surface, including a large white card with a rainbow design and a smaller purple keychain card.

Getting Started

The LA County Library offers a wealth of free online resources that you can access from anywhere with your library card. With just a computer, tablet, or smartphone and your LA County Library card and PIN, you can borrow e-books, audiobooks, magazines, movies, music, and even explore learning tools for all ages. These digital resources are available 24/7, so you can enjoy them whenever it’s convenient for you.

A tablet displaying an audiobook on a wooden table surrounded by lit candles, a mug of tea, and decorative autumn elements.

Borrowing E-Books and Audiobooks

The LA County Library supports multiple digital platforms for borrowing e-books and audiobooks:

1. Libby: A popular app for browsing and borrowing thousands of e-books and audiobooks. You can read or listen on your mobile device, tablet, computer, or even send books to a Kindle device. Checkouts automatically expire at the end of the lending period — no returns necessary.

2. Hoopla: Another digital platform that offers e-books, audiobooks, comics, movies, music, and more. LA County Library cardholders can borrow a limited number of items each month.

3. BiblioBoard: Provides access to self-published and indie e-books with no wait times or holds. This platform delivers content that is always available.

Downloading and Using Libby

One of the most popular ways to borrow e-books and audiobooks from the LA County Library is through Libby, a free app created by OverDrive. Libby allows library card holders to browse, borrow, and read digital books directly from their phone, tablet, or computer.

Step 1: Accessing the Libby App

Libby is available for free on: The Apple App Store

Google Play Store (Android Devices) Or through a web browser at libbyapp.com
Logos for Google Play and the App Store displayed side by side on a split background.

Step 2: Add Your LA County Library Card

When opening Libby for the first time:


1. Select “Yes” when asked if you have a library card.

2. Search for LA County Library in the library search bar.

3. Enter your library card number and PIN.

LA County Library logo featuring a multicolored stylized book graphic with black text.

Step 3: Browse and Borrow Titles

You can search for specific books by title or author, or browse categories like fiction, non-fiction, audiobooks, and new releases.


When you find a book you’d like, tap Borrow to check it out instantly (if available). If the title is currently checked out, you can place a Hold and receive a notification when it becomes available.

A wall of wooden bookshelves filled with rows of colorful vintage books in various sizes and bindings.

Step 4: Read or Listen

Libby makes it easy to manage your loans, view due dates, and renew items when available. Once borrowed, you can:

  • Read e-books directly in the app
  • Listen to audiobooks using Libby’s built-in audio player
  • Adjust text size, lighting, and playback speed
  • Download titles for offline use
A pair of over-ear headphones resting on an open book laid on a dark wooden surface.

Other Digital Resources You Can Access

Your LA County Library card opens the door to more than just e-books:

1. Movies, Music, and TV: Stream or download digital media through apps linked to your library card: 
https://lacountylibrary.org/movies-tv/ &  https://lacountylibrary.org/music/ 
2. Online Learning and Research Tools: Access educational resources, language learning programs, homework help, and research databases directly from the library’s digital collection:
https://lacountylibrary.org/learn/ 
3. Mobile App: The LA County Library app lets you browse the catalog, place holds, manage your account, and access digital items from your phone:
https://lacountylibrary.org/library-app/ 

Additional Tips for Using Digital Resources

A large historic library reading room with high ceilings, tall bookshelves, long wooden tables with green lamps, and a central aisle leading to double doors.
  • Always have your library card number and PIN handy. Its required to sign in to most digital services.
  • Use official apps like Libby or Hoopla for the best reading or listening experience.
  • Make sure your device has a stable internet connection when downloading or streaming content.

The LA County Library makes it easy to access books, audiobooks, movies, and learning tools from anywhere - all at no cost with a library card. Whether you’re reading audiobooks, checking out novels, or exploring digital resources for the first time, these tools are available to you 24/7 as an LA County resident. To learn more or get started, visit the official LA County Library website at https://lacountylibrary.org/

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Created By:

Tao Morales

Tao is currently majoring in Business and Economics, but has special interests in programming, coding, and technology. He aims to use his expertise and knowledge to create a tangible impact within his community. Tao aspires to create and lead initiatives within technology that serve the people around him.

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