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{{Short description|American digital distributor of eBooks, audiobooks, music, and video titles}}
{{Short description|American digital distributor of digital entertainment}}
{{Other uses|Overdrive (disambiguation)}}
{{multiple issues|
{{COI|date=January 2013}}
{{advert|date=January 2013}}
}}
{{Use American English|date=January 2023}}
{{Use American English|date=January 2023}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2023}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2023}}
{{Infobox company
{{Infobox company
| name = OverDrive, Inc.
| name = OverDrive, Inc.
| logo = OverDrive logo.svg
| logo = OverDrive logo.svg
| type = Private
| type = Private
⚫
| industry = [[Digital distribution]], ebooks, library services, school services, software and app development, digital content management, publishing
| foundation = {{Start date|1986}} in Cleveland, Ohio (36 years)
| location_city = [[Cleveland, OH|Cleveland]], Ohio
| foundation = {{Start date|1986}} in Cleveland, Ohio ({{Years ago|1986}} years)
| location_city = [[Cleveland, OH|Cleveland]], Ohio
| location_country = United States
| location_country = United States
⚫
| area_served = Worldwide
| key_people = Steve Potash <small>([[Chief executive officer|Pres and CEO]])</small>
| key_people = Steve Potash <small>([[Chief executive officer|Pres and CEO]])</small>
⚫
| area_served = Worldwide
| products = [[Libby (service)|Libby]], [[Kanopy]], Sora, [[TeachingBooks.net]]
⚫
| industry = [[Digital distribution]], eBooks, library services, school services, software and app development, digital content management, publishing
⚫
| owner = [[Kohlberg Kravis Roberts|KKR]] (2020–present)
| products = [[OverDrive Media Console]], OverDrive Read, OverDrive Media Station, Content Reserve
⚫
| homepage = {{URL|https://www.overdrive.com/}}
⚫
| owner = [[KKR]] (2020–present)
⚫
| homepage = {{URL|http://www.overdrive.com/}}
}}
}}


'''OverDrive, Inc.''' is a digital distributor of [[eBooks]], [[audiobook]]s, [[online magazine]]s and [[Streaming media|streaming video]] titles. The company provides [[digital rights management]] and download fulfillment services for publishers, libraries, schools, corporations, and book retailers.
'''OverDrive, Inc.''' is a worldwide digital distributor of [[ebooks]], [[audiobook]]s, [[online magazine]]s and [[Streaming media|streaming video]] titles. The company provides [[digital rights management]] and download fulfillment services for publishers, [[public libraries]], K–12 schools, colleges, universities, corporations, legal industries, and formerly retailers.


The largest commercial provider of ebooks, audiobooks, and other digital content such as streaming videos in the world, a 2023 report estimated its market share as perhaps being upwards of 90%.<ref name=":1">Rachel Noorda and Kathi Inman Berens. [https://www.ala.org/advocacy/sites/ala.org.advocacy/files/content/ebooks/Digital-PL-Ecosystem-Report%20(1).pdf "Digital Public Library Ecosystem 2023"]. [[American Library Association]].
In March of 2023, the company announced it would sunset its legacy OverDrive app on May 1, 2023, having already requested that library systems delete references to the app, and directing libraries and users to its [[Libby (service)|Libby]] app.<ref name="l8bby">{{cite web

|title = PS Library e-book app OverDrive to shut down on May 1st, readers directed to Libby instead
</ref><sup>:11</sup> OverDrive operates the ebook and audiobook app [[Libby (service)|Libby]], the Video streaming app [[Kanopy]] and the educational app Sora.
|publisher = Tech Crunch
|author = Sarah Perez
|url = https://techcrunch.com/2023/03/28/library-ebook-app-overdrive-to-shut-down-on-may-1st-readers-directed-to-libby-instead/}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==
OverDrive was founded in 1986<ref name="wkyc">{{cite web|last1=Reidel|first1=Jeff|title=OverDrive steering success in Northeast Ohio|url=https://www.wkyc.com/article/news/local/cleveland/overdrive-steering-success-in-northeast-ohio/95-523564785|website=WKYC|access-date=July 11, 2018|date=February 26, 2018}}</ref> and initially converted [[analog media]] to [[Digital media|digital formats]], such as interactive [[diskettes]] and [[CD-ROM]]s. In 2000, the company opened [[Content Reserve]], an online [[ebook|eBook]] and downloadable [[audiobook]] repository from which its distribution business developed.<ref>{{cite web | title = eBook Distribution Goes Global; OverDrive Content Reserve Creates International and Multi-lingual Marketplace.| url = http://www.allbusiness.com/technology/software-services-applications-markup/6134419-1.html | website= AllBusiness.com}}</ref>
OverDrive was founded in 1986<ref name="wkyc">{{cite web|last1=Reidel|first1=Jeff|title=OverDrive steering success in Northeast Ohio|url=https://www.wkyc.com/article/news/local/cleveland/overdrive-steering-success-in-northeast-ohio/95-523564785|website=WKYC|access-date=July 11, 2018|date=February 26, 2018}}</ref> and originally converted [[analog media]] to [[Digital media|digital formats]], such as interactive [[diskettes]] and [[CD-ROM]]s.<ref>{{cite news|first=Sean|last=McDonnell|title=Libraries loaning e-books; There's the Libby app for that, and a Clevelander made it|url=https://www.cleveland.com/news/2023/12/the-app-for-libraries-loaning-out-e-books-its-overdrive-and-a-clevelander-made-it.html|work=[[The Plain Dealer]]|date=December 16, 2023|access-date=December 20, 2023}}</ref> In 2000, the company opened [[Content Reserve]], an online [[ebook|eBook]] and downloadable [[audiobook]] repository from which its distribution business developed.<ref>{{cite web | title = eBook Distribution Goes Global; OverDrive Content Reserve Creates International and Multi-lingual Marketplace.| url = http://www.allbusiness.com/technology/software-services-applications-markup/6134419-1.html | website= AllBusiness.com}}</ref>


⚫
Before entering the library market, OverDrive distributed eBooks to online stores. In 2002, OverDrive was selected as the distributor of [[HarperCollins]]’ eBooks to the publisher's online retail stores.<ref>{{cite web |title=HarperCollins Launches Four Ebook Stores |url=http://www.writenews.com/2002/120602_perfectbound_international.htm}}</ref> OverDrive launched web stores for [[Harlequin Enterprises]] in 2005.<ref>{{cite web |title=Harlequin Enterprises Announces the Launch of E-Book Program |url=http://goliath.ecnext.com/coms2/gi_0199-4773958/Harlequin-Enterprises-Announces-the-Launch.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110517014752/http://goliath.ecnext.com/coms2/gi_0199-4773958/Harlequin-Enterprises-Announces-the-Launch.html |archive-date=May 17, 2011}}</ref> In 2008, OverDrive announced that it would provide download services for [[Borders Books]].<ref>{{cite web |title=OverDrive Powers Digital Audiobook Service for Borders |url=http://overdrive.com/aboutus/getArticle.aspx?newsArticleID=20080310}}</ref>
⚫
In 2012, the company announced a series of service upgrades, including a browser-based [[E-reader|eReader]],and audiobook [[Streaming media|streaming]], which enable access to audiobooks via the company’s [[OverDrive Media Console]] app. The company also developed a media station, which allows users to browse their library's digital collection on touchscreen monitors and internet workstations. An API is available which allows developers to integrate OverDrive content into various apps and platforms.<ref name="Next Generation">{{cite press release

⚫
On September 21, 2011, OverDrive began supporting [[Kindle File Format|Kindle]] public library book borrowing.<ref>{{cite web |last=Fleishman |first=Glenn |date=September 23, 2011 |title=OverDrive Adds Kindle-Format Titles to Library Ebook Lending |url=https://tidbits.com/2011/09/23/overdrive-adds-kindle-format-titles-to-library-ebook-lending/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190606074658/https://tidbits.com/2011/09/23/overdrive-adds-kindle-format-titles-to-library-ebook-lending/ |archive-date=June 6, 2019 |access-date=July 21, 2022 |website=TidBits}}</ref>

⚫
In 2012, the company announced a series of service upgrades, including a browser-based [[E-reader|eReader]], and audiobook [[Streaming media|streaming]], which enabled access to audiobooks via the company’s [[OverDrive Media Console]] app. The company also developed a media station, which allows users to browse their library's digital collection on touchscreen monitors and internet workstations. An API is available which allows developers to integrate OverDrive content into various apps and platforms.<ref name="Next Generation">{{cite press release
| title = OverDrive's Next Generation eBook Service to Extend Value of Digital Libraries
| title = OverDrive's Next Generation eBook Service to Extend Value of Digital Libraries
| url = https://company.overdrive.com/overdrives-next-generation-ebook-service-to-extend-value-of-digital-libraries|website=OverDrive.com}}</ref> The company announced a partnership with LexisNexis to provide the LexisNexis Digital Library, a customized eLending platform for the legal library market.<ref>{{cite press release|title=LexisNexis Announces LexisNexis Digital Library|url=http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20120423005925/en/LexisNexis-Announces-LexisNexis-Digital-Library|access-date=November 18, 2017}}</ref>
| url = https://company.overdrive.com/overdrives-next-generation-ebook-service-to-extend-value-of-digital-libraries|website=OverDrive.com}}</ref> The company announced a partnership with LexisNexis to provide the LexisNexis Digital Library, a customized eLending platform for the legal library market.<ref name=":0">{{cite press release|title=LexisNexis Announces LexisNexis Digital Library|url=http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20120423005925/en/LexisNexis-Announces-LexisNexis-Digital-Library|access-date=November 18, 2017}}</ref> Nokia partnered with OverDrive to launch Nokia Reading, an eReading app and service for Nokia's [[Nokia Lumia|Lumia]] 900, 800, 710, and 610 [[Windows Phone]] devices.<ref>{{cite web |title=OverDrive and Nokia Reading |url=http://overdriveblogs.com/distribution/2012/06/12/overdrive-and-nokia-reading/}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Lunden |first=Ingrid |date=May 11, 2012 |title=No Tablet News From Nokia, But It's Launching A Reading App Powered By OverDrive |url=https://techcrunch.com/2012/05/11/no-tablet-news-yet-from-nokia-but-it-is-launching-its-e-reader-reading-app/ |work=[[TechCrunch]] |access-date=August 24, 2024}}</ref>


In 2014, OverDrive completed its headquarters in the [[Cleveland]] suburb of [[Garfield Heights, Ohio]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=April 12, 2013|title=Fast-growing OverDrive shows off new HQ|url=https://www.crainscleveland.com/article/20130412/FREE/130419911/fast-growing-overdrive-shows-off-new-hq|access-date=September 11, 2020|website=Crain's Cleveland Business|language=en}}</ref>
In 2014, OverDrive completed its headquarters in the [[Cleveland]] suburb of [[Garfield Heights, Ohio]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=April 12, 2013|title=Fast-growing OverDrive shows off new HQ|url=https://www.crainscleveland.com/article/20130412/FREE/130419911/fast-growing-overdrive-shows-off-new-hq|access-date=September 11, 2020|website=Crain's Cleveland Business|language=en}}</ref>


In April 2015, [[Rakuten]] bought OverDrive for $410 million, with the deal set to close in April 2015.<ref name="yorker">{{cite magazine |url=https://www.newyorker.com/news/annals-of-communications/an-app-called-libby-and-the-surprisingly-big-business-of-library-e-books |title=An App Called Libby and the Surprisingly Big Business of Library E-Books |last=Gross |first=Daniel A |date=September 2, 2021 |magazine=The New Yorker |access-date=July 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210902101851/https://www.newyorker.com/news/annals-of-communications/an-app-called-libby-and-the-surprisingly-big-business-of-library-e-books |archive-date=September 2, 2021}}</ref> OverDrive CEO Steve Potash remained in his position and OverDrive kept its name while operating under Rakuten USA.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/industry-deals/article/65926-rakuten-to-buy-overdrive.html |title=Rakuten to Buy OverDrive |date=March 19, 2015 |work=Publishers Weekly |first=Jim |last=Milliot}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Rakuten Buys Ebook And Audiobook Platform OverDrive For $410M|url=https://social.techcrunch.com/2015/03/19/rakuten-ovedrive/|access-date=September 11, 2020|website=TechCrunch|language=en-US}}</ref>
In April 2015, [[Rakuten]] bought OverDrive for $410 million, with the deal set to close in April 2015.<ref name="yorker">{{cite magazine |url=https://www.newyorker.com/news/annals-of-communications/an-app-called-libby-and-the-surprisingly-big-business-of-library-e-books |title=An App Called Libby and the Surprisingly Big Business of Library E-Books |last=Gross |first=Daniel A |date=September 2, 2021 |magazine=The New Yorker |access-date=July 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210902101851/https://www.newyorker.com/news/annals-of-communications/an-app-called-libby-and-the-surprisingly-big-business-of-library-e-books |archive-date=September 2, 2021}}</ref> OverDrive CEO Steve Potash remained in his position and OverDrive kept its name while operating under Rakuten USA.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/industry-deals/article/65926-rakuten-to-buy-overdrive.html |title=Rakuten to Buy OverDrive |date=March 19, 2015 |work=Publishers Weekly |first=Jim |last=Milliot}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Rakuten Buys Ebook And Audiobook Platform OverDrive For $410M|url=https://techcrunch.com/2015/03/19/rakuten-ovedrive/|access-date=September 11, 2020|website=TechCrunch|language=en-US}}</ref>


In 2019, it was reported that private equity firm [[KKR]] would be purchasing OverDrive from [[Rakuten]].<ref name="yorker" /> The price of the sale was not disclosed, though Rakuten said it would recognize about $365.6 million in profit from the sale in the first quarter of 2020.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/industry-deals/article/82066-equity-firm-agrees-to-buy-overdrive.html |title=Equity Firm Agrees to Buy OverDrive |date=December 26, 2019 |work=Publishers Weekly |first=Jim |last=Milliot}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://the-digital-reader.com/2019/12/25/rakuten-sells-overdrive-to-private-investment-firm/ |title=Rakuten Sells OverDrive to Private Investment Firm |date=December 26, 2019 |work=The Digital Reader |first=Nate |last=Hoffelder}}</ref> Potash later offered more details about the KKR acquisition in a message to OverDrive's library customers;<ref name="Kozlowski 2020">{{cite web | last=Kozlowski | first=Michael | title=Overdrive CEO discloses new information on KKR deal | website=Good e-Reader | date=February 11, 2020 | url=https://goodereader.com/blog/digital-library-news/overdrive-ceo-discloses-new-information-on-kkr-deal | access-date=June 17, 2020}}</ref> the acquisition was finalized in June 2020.<ref name="Milliot2020">{{cite web | last=Milliot | first=Jim | title=KKR Completes OverDrive Purchase | work=[[Publishers Weekly]] | date=June 9, 2020 | url=https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/industry-deals/article/83551-kkr-completes-overdrive-purchase.html | access-date=June 17, 2020}}</ref>
In 2019, it was reported that private equity firm [[Kohlberg Kravis Roberts|KKR]] would be purchasing OverDrive from [[Rakuten]].<ref name="yorker" /> The estimate market value was $775 million in 2019.<ref name=":1" /><sup>:11</sup> The acquisition was finalized in June 2020.<ref name="Milliot2020">{{cite web | last=Milliot | first=Jim | title=KKR Completes OverDrive Purchase | work=[[Publishers Weekly]] | date=June 9, 2020 | url=https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/industry-deals/article/83551-kkr-completes-overdrive-purchase.html | access-date=June 17, 2020}}</ref>


In June 2020, [[RBMedia]] sold its library assets to OverDrive; this includes RBDigital, an app and service for the distribution of digital content. RBMedia and OverDrive are both owned by KKR, with KKR's OverDrive purchase concluded in June 2020.<ref name="yorker" /> The sale of RBMedia's library division to OverDrive represents a merger of KKR's related assets.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.crainscleveland.com/technology/digital-media-company-overdrive-buys-library-assets-audiobook-producer-rbmedia |title=Digital media company OverDrive buys the library assets of audiobook producer RBmedia |author=Scott Suttell |date=June 24, 2020 |access-date=September 18, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/overdrive-to-acquire-rbdigital-from-rbmedia-301082088.html |title=OverDrive to Acquire RBdigital from RBmedia |work=prnewswire.com |date=June 23, 2020 |access-date=July 13, 2020}}</ref>
In June 2020, [[RBMedia]] sold its library assets to OverDrive; this includes RBDigital, an app and service for the distribution of digital content. RBMedia and OverDrive are both owned by KKR, with KKR's OverDrive purchase concluded in June 2020.<ref name="yorker" /> The sale of RBMedia's library division to OverDrive represents a merger of KKR's related assets.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.crainscleveland.com/technology/digital-media-company-overdrive-buys-library-assets-audiobook-producer-rbmedia |title=Digital media company OverDrive buys the library assets of audiobook producer RBmedia |author=Scott Suttell |date=June 24, 2020 |access-date=September 18, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/overdrive-to-acquire-rbdigital-from-rbmedia-301082088.html |title=OverDrive to Acquire RBdigital from RBmedia |work=prnewswire.com |date=June 23, 2020 |access-date=July 13, 2020}}</ref>


On June 9, 2021, it was announced that OverDrive had reached a deal to acquire [[Kanopy]], an on-demand streaming video platform.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210609005766/en/L-Squared-Capital-Partners-Announces-Pending-Sale-of-Kanopy-to-OverDrive |title=L Squared Capital Partners Announces Pending Sale of Kanopy to OverDrive |date=June 9, 2021 |website=Business Wire |access-date=July 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609193409/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210609005766/en/L-Squared-Capital-Partners-Announces-Pending-Sale-of-Kanopy-to-OverDrive |archive-date=June 9, 2021}}</ref>
On June 9, 2021, it was announced that OverDrive had reached a deal to acquire [[Kanopy]], a leading on-demand streaming video platform for public and academic libraries. The acquisition was completed on July 15, 2021.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210609005766/en/L-Squared-Capital-Partners-Announces-Pending-Sale-of-Kanopy-to-OverDrive |title=L Squared Capital Partners Announces Pending Sale of Kanopy to OverDrive |date=June 9, 2021 |website=Business Wire |access-date=July 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609193409/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210609005766/en/L-Squared-Capital-Partners-Announces-Pending-Sale-of-Kanopy-to-OverDrive |archive-date=June 9, 2021}}</ref>

==Libraries and schools==
OverDrive launched its Digital Library Reserve, a digital download platform for public libraries, in 2002.<ref>{{cite web |title=OverDrive's Digital Library Reserve Enables Circulating eBook and Digital Magazine Collections. |date=November 19, 2021 |website=The Free Library |access-date=July 21, 2022 |url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/OverDrive's+Digital+Library+Reserve+Enables+Circulating+eBook+and...-a094388163 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304201534/http://www.thefreelibrary.com/OverDrive's+Digital+Library+Reserve+Enables+Circulating+eBook+and...-a094388163 |archive-date=March 4, 2016}}</ref> In 2004, the platform was changed into a [[Digital rights management|DRM-protected]] audiobook download platform.<ref>{{cite web |title=OverDrive Audio Books Platform Released |url=http://www.overdrive.com/aboutus/getArticle.aspx?newsArticleID=20041026 |date=October 26, 2004 |website=OverDrive |access-date=July 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100102032519/http://www.overdrive.com/aboutus/getArticle.aspx?newsArticleID=20041026 |archive-date=January 2, 2010}}</ref>{{unreliable source?|date=February 2016}} In 2005, OverDrive installed download stations into [[public libraries]]<ref>{{cite web |title=OverDrive Launches Audiobook Kiosks in Public Libraries |url=http://www.drmwatch.com/ocr/article.php/3571376 |date=December 15, 2005 |website=DRM Watch |access-date=July 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110724004140/http://www.drmwatch.com/ocr/article.php/3571376 |archive-date=July 24, 2011}}</ref> and added music to its library platform.<ref>{{cite web |title=World's Greatest Classical Music Available via Download from Public Library Websites |website=OverDrive |access-date=July 21, 2022 |url=http://www.overdrive.com/aboutus/getArticle.aspx?newsArticleID=20050622 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100102032335/http://www.overdrive.com/aboutus/getArticle.aspx?newsArticleID=20050622 |archive-date=January 2, 2010}}</ref>{{unreliable source?|date=February 2016}} OverDrive added downloadable videos in April 2006.<ref>{{cite web
| title = OverDrive Download Video Celebrates One Year Anniversary
| url = http://www.overdrive.com/aboutus/getArticle.aspx?newsArticleID=20070503
}}</ref>{{unreliable source?|date=February 2016}} In 2007, the company launched its School Download Library, an eBook service for K–12 schools based on Digital Library Reserve. In March 2008, the company announced plans to provide MP3 audiobooks to public libraries as well as retailers.<ref>{{cite web
| title = OverDrive to offer DRM-free audiobooks
| url = http://www.teleread.org/blog/2008/03/19/overdrive-to-offer-drm-free-audiobooks-via-borders/
}}</ref>

OverDrive's [[Libby (service)|Libby]] and Sora programs for mobile devices can check out [[Ebook|eBooks]] and audiobooks from libraries.

==Book retail==
Before entering the library market, OverDrive distributed eBooks to many [[Online shopping|e-tailers]]. In 2002, OverDrive was selected as the distributor of [[HarperCollins]]’ eBooks to the publisher's online retail stores.<ref>{{cite web
| title = HarperCollins Launches Four Ebook Stores
| url = http://www.writenews.com/2002/120602_perfectbound_international.htm
⚫
}}</ref> OverDrive launched web stores for [[Harlequin Enterprises]] in 2005.<ref>{{cite web|title=Harlequin Enterprises Announces the Launch of E-Book Program |url=http://goliath.ecnext.com/coms2/gi_0199-4773958/Harlequin-Enterprises-Announces-the-Launch.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110517014752/http://goliath.ecnext.com/coms2/gi_0199-4773958/Harlequin-Enterprises-Announces-the-Launch.html |archive-date=May 17, 2011 }}</ref> In 2008, OverDrive announced that it would provide download services for [[Borders Books]].<ref>{{cite web
| title = OverDrive Powers Digital Audiobook Service for Borders
| url = http://overdrive.com/aboutus/getArticle.aspx?newsArticleID=20080310
}}</ref>

OverDrive has entered into partnerships with technology companies including [[Adobe Systems]], [[Microsoft]], [[Mobipocket]], and [[Nokia]]. In 2008, Adobe and OverDrive jointly announced that OverDrive would be the co-developer and operator of Adobe [[Adobe Digital Editions Protection Technology|ADEPT]], a hosted DRM service to protect files viewed with [[Adobe Digital Editions]].{{citation needed|date=February 2016}}

In 2012, OverDrive partnered with Nokia to launch Nokia Reading, an eReading app and service for Nokia's [[Nokia Lumia|Lumia]] 900, 800, 710, and 610 [[Windows Phone]] devices.<ref>{{cite web
| title = OverDrive and Nokia Reading
| url = http://overdriveblogs.com/distribution/2012/06/12/overdrive-and-nokia-reading/
}}</ref>{{unreliable source?|date=February 2016}}

== Products and services ==
OverDrive's download services include several [[software as a service]] products for libraries, retailers, schools, publishers and corporations, as well as web-based products for content protection and management.

[[Libby (service)|Libby]] is an OverDrive [[mobile app]] which supports users in accessing services from their local libraries.

== Events and outreach ==
OverDrive holds a biennial user group meeting called Digipalooza to train and educate librarians on the download service. Held in [[Cleveland, Ohio]], the event focuses on trends, best practices, and outreach ideas for public library download websites.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://librarytechnology.org/pr/26508 |title=Sourcebooks CEO Dominique Raccah to present keynote at OverDrive Digipalooza '21 |date=July 20, 2021 |website=Library Technology Guides |access-date=July 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210731082313/https://librarytechnology.org/pr/26508 |archive-date=July 31, 2021}}</ref>

At the 2008 [[Public Library Association]] National Conference, OverDrive unveiled preliminary plans for the nationally touring Digital Bookmobile.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://company.overdrive.com/2008/03/26/digital-bookmobile-to-launch-national-tour-at-public-libraries/ |title=Digital Bookmobile to Launch National Tour at Public Libraries |date=March 26, 2008 |website=Overdrive |access-date=July 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210614034936/https://company.overdrive.com/2008/03/26/digital-bookmobile-to-launch-national-tour-at-public-libraries/ |archive-date=June 14, 2021}}</ref> The travelling exhibit is housed inside an [[18-wheeler]] and visits public libraries throughout the OverDrive network. Inside the [[tractor-trailer]], learning stations guide patrons through all aspects of their public library's download service. As of August 2012, OverDrive has hosted more than 500 Digital Bookmobile events at libraries and community centers throughout North America.<ref>{{cite web |title=Happy 4th Birthday, Digital Bookmobile! |url=http://overdriveblogs.com/library/2012/08/10/happy-4th-birthday-digital-bookmobile/ |last=Lovett |first=Michael |date=August 10, 2012 |website=OverDrive |access-date=July 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120814000035/http://overdriveblogs.com/library/2012/08/10/happy-4th-birthday-digital-bookmobile/ |archive-date=August 14, 2012}}</ref>{{unreliable source?|date=February 2016}}

In 2011, OverDrive CEO Steve Potash made obvious hints that the [[Amazon Kindle]] would join other major eReaders in their system as soon as September 2011. In his "Crystal Ball Report," during the final session of OverDrive's July 2011 Digipalooza conference, he hinted at the month of release.<ref>{{cite web|title=OverDrive Hints That Kindle Library Lending is Coming in September |url=http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/overdrive_hints_that_kindle_library_lending_is_com.php |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110925025654/http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/overdrive_hints_that_kindle_library_lending_is_com.php |archive-date=September 25, 2011 }}</ref>
⚫
On September 21, 2011, OverDrive began supporting Kindle public library book borrowing.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://tidbits.com/2011/09/23/overdrive-adds-kindle-format-titles-to-library-ebook-lending/ |title=OverDrive Adds Kindle-Format Titles to Library Ebook Lending |last=Fleishman |first=Glenn |date=September 23, 2011 |website=TidBits |access-date=July 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190606074658/https://tidbits.com/2011/09/23/overdrive-adds-kindle-format-titles-to-library-ebook-lending/ |archive-date=June 6, 2019}}</ref>

On September 18, 2014, OverDrive debuted International "Read an Ebook" Day, "an annual holiday to celebrate and raise awareness for reading on digital devices."<ref name="day">{{cite web |url=https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/international-read-ebook-day-debuts-121851904.html?guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAACe-YCJU1qdgB_dYR9AivoBcF0qJ0-P_L5ivgStZPUT9_61AhcL2HjjYkbxRnVBfbkgvosvmLYDp78pXAp3r0ZZzyV4p56ZKhshkT2pU-eQ7qk8fov96wWazNVtrnB-ks4b3O1K2ZMHWh07FB_9phi0H-mVzJwJl4RkGR2TbWH_y |title=International Read an eBook Day Debuts September 18 |date=September 16, 2014 |website=Yahoo!Finance |access-date=July 21, 2022}}</ref> Leading up to and on that day, OverDrive encouraged "readers around the world" to participate "by choosing from millions of free eBooks from their local library or purchasing an eBook from a retailer online."<ref name="day" /> Additionally, throughout the day, OverDrive celebrated the holiday by giving away tablets and devices every hour on the event website (www.readanebookday.com) and through social media to readers who tell their story of what eBooks mean to them, by using the [[hashtag]] #eBookDay on [[Facebook]] or [[Twitter]] to tell their story, or commenting directly at the event website.<ref name="day" />


In March of 2023, the company announced plans to sunset its flagship OverDrive app on May 1, 2023. OverDrive's new business model is to transition users to the newer [[Libby (service)|Libby]] reading app, which allows public, corporate and academic library systems to provide digital content to members of their respective library's network.<ref name="l8bby">{{cite web |author=Perez |first=Sarah |date=March 28, 2023 |title=PS Library e-book app OverDrive to shut down on May 1st, readers directed to Libby instead |url=https://techcrunch.com/2023/03/28/library-ebook-app-overdrive-to-shut-down-on-may-1st-readers-directed-to-libby-instead/ |website=Techcrunch |publisher=}}</ref> The content consists of digital books, audiobooks, magazines and an extras section displaying all the databases and streaming media services that public, corporate and academic libraries have to offer to their users.
== Criticism ==
===Audiobooks===
OverDrive is criticized for relying on [[digital rights management]] (DRM) protection technology from Microsoft for the bulk of its audiobooks. Microsoft's refusal to update its Macintosh versions of [[Windows Media Player]] to accommodate the requisite encryption scheme disqualifies Apple computer users from accessing the bulk of OverDrive's audio files, which are formatted as DRM [[Windows Media Audio]] (WMA).


== Reception ==
In March 2008, OverDrive announced that it would distribute a collection of approximately 3,000 audiobooks in the [[MP3]] format, which is more widely compatible.<ref>{{cite web |title=OverDrive Breaks the iPod Barrier for Downloadable Audio |last=Oder |first=Norman |date=March 19, 2008 |website=Library Journal |url=http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6542329.html?rssid=191 |access-date=July 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080409214125/http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6542329.html?rssid=191 |archive-date=April 9, 2008}}</ref> On November 19, 2008, OverDrive also released the OverDrive Media Console for [[Mac OS X|Mac]], which allows Mac owners to download and listen to MP3 audiobooks from their library on a home computer.{{citation needed|date=February 2016}} OverDrive's [[Streaming media|streaming audiobook]] option—released in 2012—enables Mac users to access many audiobooks that were previously unavailable due to WMA compatibility issues.<ref>{{cite web |title=OverDrive to Provide Streaming Audiobooks to Libraries and Schools |url=http://www.overdrive.com/news/OverDrive-to-Provide-Streaming-Audiobooks-to-Libraries-and-Schools |date=June 13, 2012 |website=Overdrive |access-date=July 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120618064823/http://www.overdrive.com/news/OverDrive-to-Provide-Streaming-Audiobooks-to-Libraries-and-Schools |archive-date=June 18, 2012}}</ref>
===Connection to local library===
The 2023 [[American Library Association]] report on the Digital Public Library Ecosystem found that younger users of the apps largely did not realize that local libraries paid for the services they received through apps like OverDrive's Libby.<ref name=":1" /><sup>:13</sup>


===Fictionwise===
=== Data privacy ===
The 2023 American Library Association report on the Digital Public Library Ecosystem could not determine what user data Amazon could use and access from books read on the Kindle app through the partnership with Libby.<ref name=":1" /><sup>:11-12</sup>
In January 2009, OverDrive informed [[Fictionwise]] that it would no longer be providing downloads for purchasers of [[e-book|eBook]]s through Fictionwise as of January 31, 2009; no reason was provided to Fictionwise as to why it was being shut down. This prevents previous purchasers from being able to renew their books on new devices.<ref name=fictionwise>{{cite web
|url = http://www.fictionwise.com/help/Overdrive-Replacement-FAQ.htm
|title = Fictionwise Support FAQ
|access-date = January 8, 2009
|url-status = dead
|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110927131947/http://www.fictionwise.com/help/Overdrive-Replacement-FAQ.htm
|archive-date = September 27, 2011
}}</ref> Fictionwise was working to provide replacement eBooks for its customers in alternative, non-DRM-protected formats, but did not have the rights to provide all of the books in different formats.<ref name=fictionwise />


==See also==
==See also==
*[[3M#Products and patents|3M Library Systems]]
*[[Adobe Content Server]]
*[[Adobe Content Server]]
*[[Baker & Taylor#Offerings|Axis360]]
*[[Baker & Taylor#Offerings|Axis360]]
*[[Digital library]]
*[[Digital library]]
*[[Hoopla (digital media service)]]
*[[Hoopla (digital media service)]]
*[[Kanopy]]
*[[Public library]]
*[[Publishing]]
*[[Publishing]]


Latest revision as of 18:18, 24 August 2024

For other uses, see Overdrive (disambiguation).

OverDrive, Inc.
Company typePrivate
IndustryDigital distribution, ebooks, library services, school services, software and app development, digital content management, publishing
Founded1986 (1986) in Cleveland, Ohio (39 years)
Headquarters
Cleveland, Ohio
,
United States
Area served
Worldwide
Key people
Steve Potash (Pres and CEO)
ProductsLibby, Kanopy, Sora, TeachingBooks.net
OwnerKKR (2020–present)
Websitewww.overdrive.com

OverDrive, Inc. is a worldwide digital distributor of ebooks, audiobooks, online magazines and streaming video titles. The company provides digital rights management and download fulfillment services for publishers, public libraries, K–12 schools, colleges, universities, corporations, legal industries, and formerly retailers.

The largest commercial provider of ebooks, audiobooks, and other digital content such as streaming videos in the world, a 2023 report estimated its market share as perhaps being upwards of 90%.[1]:11 OverDrive operates the ebook and audiobook app Libby, the Video streaming app Kanopy and the educational app Sora.

History

[edit]

OverDrive was founded in 1986[2] and originally converted analog media to digital formats, such as interactive diskettes and CD-ROMs.[3] In 2000, the company opened Content Reserve, an online eBook and downloadable audiobook repository from which its distribution business developed.[4]

Before entering the library market, OverDrive distributed eBooks to online stores. In 2002, OverDrive was selected as the distributor of HarperCollins’ eBooks to the publisher's online retail stores.[5] OverDrive launched web stores for Harlequin Enterprises in 2005.[6] In 2008, OverDrive announced that it would provide download services for Borders Books.[7]

On September 21, 2011, OverDrive began supporting Kindle public library book borrowing.[8]

In 2012, the company announced a series of service upgrades, including a browser-based eReader, and audiobook streaming, which enabled access to audiobooks via the company’s OverDrive Media Console app. The company also developed a media station, which allows users to browse their library's digital collection on touchscreen monitors and internet workstations. An API is available which allows developers to integrate OverDrive content into various apps and platforms.[9] The company announced a partnership with LexisNexis to provide the LexisNexis Digital Library, a customized eLending platform for the legal library market.[10] Nokia partnered with OverDrive to launch Nokia Reading, an eReading app and service for Nokia's Lumia 900, 800, 710, and 610 Windows Phone devices.[11][12]

In 2014, OverDrive completed its headquarters in the Cleveland suburb of Garfield Heights, Ohio.[13]

In April 2015, Rakuten bought OverDrive for $410 million, with the deal set to close in April 2015.[14] OverDrive CEO Steve Potash remained in his position and OverDrive kept its name while operating under Rakuten USA.[15][16]

In 2019, it was reported that private equity firm KKR would be purchasing OverDrive from Rakuten.[14] The estimate market value was $775 million in 2019.[1]:11 The acquisition was finalized in June 2020.[17]

In June 2020, RBMedia sold its library assets to OverDrive; this includes RBDigital, an app and service for the distribution of digital content. RBMedia and OverDrive are both owned by KKR, with KKR's OverDrive purchase concluded in June 2020.[14] The sale of RBMedia's library division to OverDrive represents a merger of KKR's related assets.[18][19]

On June 9, 2021, it was announced that OverDrive had reached a deal to acquire Kanopy, a leading on-demand streaming video platform for public and academic libraries. The acquisition was completed on July 15, 2021.[20]

In March of 2023, the company announced plans to sunset its flagship OverDrive app on May 1, 2023. OverDrive's new business model is to transition users to the newer Libby reading app, which allows public, corporate and academic library systems to provide digital content to members of their respective library's network.[21] The content consists of digital books, audiobooks, magazines and an extras section displaying all the databases and streaming media services that public, corporate and academic libraries have to offer to their users.

Reception

[edit]

Connection to local library

[edit]

The 2023 American Library Association report on the Digital Public Library Ecosystem found that younger users of the apps largely did not realize that local libraries paid for the services they received through apps like OverDrive's Libby.[1]:13

Data privacy

[edit]

The 2023 American Library Association report on the Digital Public Library Ecosystem could not determine what user data Amazon could use and access from books read on the Kindle app through the partnership with Libby.[1]:11-12

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c d Rachel Noorda and Kathi Inman Berens. "Digital Public Library Ecosystem 2023". American Library Association.
  2. ^ Reidel, Jeff (February 26, 2018). "OverDrive steering success in Northeast Ohio". WKYC. Retrieved July 11, 2018.
  3. ^ McDonnell, Sean (December 16, 2023). "Libraries loaning e-books; There's the Libby app for that, and a Clevelander made it". The Plain Dealer. Retrieved December 20, 2023.
  4. ^ "eBook Distribution Goes Global; OverDrive Content Reserve Creates International and Multi-lingual Marketplace". AllBusiness.com.
  5. ^ "HarperCollins Launches Four Ebook Stores".
  6. ^ "Harlequin Enterprises Announces the Launch of E-Book Program". Archived from the original on May 17, 2011.
  7. ^ "OverDrive Powers Digital Audiobook Service for Borders".
  8. ^ Fleishman, Glenn (September 23, 2011). "OverDrive Adds Kindle-Format Titles to Library Ebook Lending". TidBits. Archived from the original on June 6, 2019. Retrieved July 21, 2022.
  9. ^ "OverDrive's Next Generation eBook Service to Extend Value of Digital Libraries". OverDrive.com (Press release).
  10. ^ "LexisNexis Announces LexisNexis Digital Library" (Press release). Retrieved November 18, 2017.
  11. ^ "OverDrive and Nokia Reading".
  12. ^ Lunden, Ingrid (May 11, 2012). "No Tablet News From Nokia, But It's Launching A Reading App Powered By OverDrive". TechCrunch. Retrieved August 24, 2024.
  13. ^ "Fast-growing OverDrive shows off new HQ". Crain's Cleveland Business. April 12, 2013. Retrieved September 11, 2020.
  14. ^ a b c Gross, Daniel A (September 2, 2021). "An App Called Libby and the Surprisingly Big Business of Library E-Books". The New Yorker. Archived from the original on September 2, 2021. Retrieved July 22, 2022.
  15. ^ Milliot, Jim (March 19, 2015). "Rakuten to Buy OverDrive". Publishers Weekly.
  16. ^ "Rakuten Buys Ebook And Audiobook Platform OverDrive For $410M". TechCrunch. Retrieved September 11, 2020.
  17. ^ Milliot, Jim (June 9, 2020). "KKR Completes OverDrive Purchase". Publishers Weekly. Retrieved June 17, 2020.
  18. ^ Scott Suttell (June 24, 2020). "Digital media company OverDrive buys the library assets of audiobook producer RBmedia". Retrieved September 18, 2020.
  19. ^ "OverDrive to Acquire RBdigital from RBmedia". prnewswire.com. June 23, 2020. Retrieved July 13, 2020.
  20. ^ "L Squared Capital Partners Announces Pending Sale of Kanopy to OverDrive". Business Wire. June 9, 2021. Archived from the original on June 9, 2021. Retrieved July 21, 2022.
  21. ^ Perez, Sarah (March 28, 2023). "PS Library e-book app OverDrive to shut down on May 1st, readers directed to Libby instead". Techcrunch.
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