I am looking to download audiobooks (not eBooks) for my MP3 player. I have downloaded audiobooks to the computer in the past for use

on our long driving trips.

Answer

Hello,

As of Feb. 23, 2022, Overdrive is retiring its desktop software which is used to transfer audiobooks to USB or an MP3 player. If you already have the Overdrive Media Console or Overdrive for Windows installed, you should be able to still use the process below during the near future. If not, please explore downloading the Libby app to an app-supporting mobile device and linking it to your car stereo using Bluetooth or USB/Aux cable connection.

Plug in your USB or MP3 player to your computer.
In a web browser, go to https://serra.overdrive.com/
Click on the "Sign in" link in the upper righthand corner. Select "Carlsbad City Library" from the dropdown menu and enter your library card number. It's a good idea to sign in before searching for books because the Carlsbad Library has a premium account and you'll have access to more titles if you are signed in.
Check out an audiobook you'd like to download, or go to your My Account -> Loans page
On your Loans page, you should see options next to your checked out audiobook. Below these options should be a question: Do you have the Overdrive app? > Click on the little right arrow after that question.
You should see a new option revealed: "Download MP3 audiobook." This option was previously visible right on your Loans page. Click on the "Download MP3 audiobook" button.
This doesn’t download a straight .mp3 file, even though it says “Download MP3 audiobook.” It instead downloads an encrypted .odm file, which needs to be opened in the Overdrive Desktop software to unpack the audiobook. Click on the downloaded .odm file, which should open in your Overdrive software if you've got it installed.
Overdrive’s instructions for transferring the mp3 to the USB drive once you get the .odm file downloaded and open are here: https://help.overdrive.com/en-us/0004.html
If these instructions don't match what you're seeing, there's a "Help" link in the top right of the website. Search for "MP3" to find current help articles for downloading to your device.
Please note we encourage using the Libby app if you have a device that will support apps; the above instructions are for simpler storage devices like MP3 players and flash drives.
Please don't hesitate to call us at 442-339-2096 if you have any problems.