The Short, Short Version

Some people just want to get down to the nitty gritty. That's what this is. A certain amount of knowledge of smartphones and apps is assumed.

Note that some menus, flyouts and screens have more to show than you might see at first. When in doubt, scroll.

Step zero: Install

Go to your app store and search for Libby. You may recognize the app by the icon shown here. Install the app like normal.

Step one: Register

If you have a library card, this is super easy. If you don't, maybe it's time to visit the library (with a photo ID and a recent piece of mail).

First, find the library. Libby will guide you through this process. Your mileage may vary with letting the app search. Instead, search for Illinois Heartland Library System. As you type, the Digital Library of Illinois located in Champaign, Illinois will pop up. Select it.

Next, enter your barcode and PIN. If you do not have this information, contact the library. This registration will not need to be repeated unless you delete your app data.

For more information about this step, click here.

Step two: Preferences (optional)

To the left side on the main screen, there is a Preferences link. Tap that for a menu of customization options. You may select preferred audience, format, language and other settings. These will filter results of any searches you make.

Remember to tap Apply Preferences to save your selections!

For more information about the options available, click here.

Step three: Explore

Tap Explore to the right side and you will be presented with several guides (curated collections) and system generated lists such as "What's New?".

Past searches may also be revisited on this screen at the bottom of the list.

For more information about exploring the Digital Library, click here.