If you have a library card with The Reykjavik City Library, you have access to the e-library Rafbókasafnið, www.rafbokasafnid.is, which has a large collection of e-books and audiobooks, including crime, romance, adventure, biographies, recipes, and self-help.  

You can read e-books or listen to audiobooks on the website or through the app Libby, which can be downloaded on most smartphones and tablets. 

Does it cost to access the e-library?

If you have a library card with The Reykjavik City Library, or with other affiliated libraries, you have free access to the e-library!

How do I get access to the e-library?

You’ll find the e-library at www.rafbokasafnid.is. You need your library card number and password to create an account. If you don't know your library card number or need to update your password, log into "My Account" here on the library website and visit "User profile".

To use the e-library on your phone or tablet, we recommend downloading the Libby app, which is free on Apple Play Store (iOS), Google Play (Android), and the Microsoft Store (Windows 10). See more detailed instructions for the e-library. 

Please note that the Overdrive app will be discontinued end of April 2023, everywhere except on Kindle Fire. We encourage anyone still using the Overdrive app to switch over to the Libby app. Here is some info to help you make the switch, and you are of course welcome to get some assistance with this at your library.

How long can I keep the books?

Every book can be checked out for 7, 14, or 21 days. A book that has been checked out will be returned automatically at the end of the loan period, so there is no risk of late fees. Of course, it’s also possible to return books early. If nobody is waiting for the book, you can extend your loan. That possibility opens up 72 hours before the book is automatically returned.  

How many books can I check out at the same time?

You can check out 7 books at the same time and put a hold on 10.

The book that I want to read is not available in the e-library. What can I do?

It’s possible to submit a purchase suggestion on the e-library website. You can suggest three books for purchase every 14 days. 

Do you have to be connected to the internet to read e-books?

You can download books via the Libby app or the Adobe Digital Editions program. Learn more about these programs in the instructions. 

Is it possible to use the e-library without downloading any apps or programs?

It is not necessary to download any apps; you can read e-books or listen to audiobooks from the e-library through the web browser on your computer, tablet, or smartphone. Using this method, you must be connected to the internet.

If you have any questions or suggestions pertaining to the e-library, drop us a line at rafbokasafnid@borgarbokasafn.is.

Finally, don’t forget that The Reykjavik City Library has a large collection of books in print that can be read without any apps or programs! It’s easy to use the search box at the top of this website to look for books or other materials, reserve them, and pick them up at your most convenient library location.