Getting a U.S. library card before leaving for Spain and a Spanish library card while there can provide wonderful (free) services.
Libraries have modernized. They provide a wide range of services that can be accessed from anywhere in the world: eBooks, audiobooks, as well as online magazines and newspapers. Individuals travelling to or living in Spain have the unique opportunity of getting access to the full digital catalogues of two nations.
Having this access could help you immensely in your language learning journey and save you hundreds in subscription services and book purchases. You would be sorry not to take full advantage of these free and easy to access resources.
No need for expensive audiobook subscriptions or book purchases.
How can I access these digital catalogues?
It’s incredibly simple. Libraries that use OverDrive provide their digital catalogue through the application Libby. OverDrive is a worldwide digital distributor of eBooks, audiobooks, online magazines and streaming video titles.
In contrast, Spain uses a service called eBiblio. I will cover this later.
Libby Guide
Step 1: Check if your library collaborates with OverDrive.
https://www.overdrive.com/account/select-library
Step 2: Go to your local library with an ID and request a library card.
Step 3: Access Libby.
Select “Sign In With My Card” and type in your card number to access the full digital catalogue of your library.
Congratulations! You now have access to tens of thousands of eBooks, audiobooks, and various other digital resources.
Browse, take out a loan, and enjoy!
eBiblio Guide
Just like Libby, Spain uses an app called eBiblio. After getting a library card and connecting it to the app, you are able to check out eBooks, audiobooks, and various other digital services provided through Spain’s public library system. Each comunidad has their own catalogue.
https://www.cultura.gob.es/cultura/areas/bibliotecas/mc/eBiblio/inicio.html
1. Become a member of any public library and request an access code. (must be currently residing in Spain)
Go to a public Spanish library near you, request an application form, present your TIE*, and receive your library card after it is processed.
*A TIE is a foreign ID card you will apply for while in Spain: Your First Tie
When picking up your library card, make sure to inquire about the access code for eBiblio. You will also need to create an eBiblio account to download your comunidad’s digital catalogue.
2. Download the eBiblio app and add the digital catalogue of your community.
Android:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.demarque.ebiblio
Apple:
https://apps.apple.com/es/app/ebiblio/id1541822581
After downloading the app, go to catalogues, select your comunidad, sign up, and log in.
3. Navigate and search for eBooks, magazines, audiobooks, and more.
4. Enjoy
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