Libby App by OverDrive

Simplifying Library Navigation in Libby App

Timeline
June 2025 - present

My Role
UX/UI Designer & Researcher

Tools
Figma, FigJam, & Google Forms

Overview

Libby is a free app that lets users borrow ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines from public libraries using their library card. For this self-initiated project, I investigated navigation issues related to borrowed items, holds, and library card management.

Problem

Users struggle to navigate between Borrowed, Holds, and Library Cards, leading to accidental returns
and frustration.

Research

I used a mixed-methods approach including a 126-user survey, review analysis, competitor comparisons, and OverDrive usage data to uncover navigation pain points in Borrowed, Holds, and Library Cards.

Insights

While 89.6% of users report being satisfied or very satisfied with the Libby app, many still experience friction when moving between borrowed items, holds, and library cards. These issues can lead to confusion and frustration, especially for the 53% who use the app daily or the 23% who have accidentally returned a book, particularly among users managing multiple library accounts or those with lower tech confidence.

Solutions

I implemented UX improvements to streamline navigation, reduce errors, and simplify library card management.

Improving Library
Card Management

Library card controls were moved to the
top of each screen to simplify access and reduce confusion. Previously, they were scattered across multiple screens with inconsistent entry points, making them difficult to find and manage.

  1. Made it easier to view and switch library cards from any screen

  2. Reduced confusion about which library account is currently active

  3. Streamlined the process of managing and switching between multiple cards

Error Prevention
and Feedback

Added visual cues, confirmation steps, and undo options to help users feel more confident and reduce the risk of accidental actions. These changes address frequent complaints about unclear or irreversible interactions.

  1. Provided visual confirmation using checkmarks and toast messages after key action

  2. Introduced “Undo” options to reverse accidental returns or deletions

  3. Reduced anxiety and hesitation by making system feedback more consistent and predictable

Improving Orientation
and Navigation

To reduce disorientation and cognitive load, I introduced a dedicated Home screen as the app’s consistent landing page. Keeping navigation elements in a fixed order ensures users always begin each session from the same familiar place and can move through the app with confidence.

  1. Added clear labels to each screen to reinforce page context

  2. Updated menu items with consistent, descriptive naming

  3. Improved wayfinding so users always know where they are and how to navigate between key sections

Outcomes

Approach

Rather than proposing a full redesign, I focused on realistic, incremental changes that reflect how product teams typically work. These improvements fit within Libby’s existing infrastructure, helping users transition smoothly without breaking trust or disrupting learned behaviors.

Deep Dive

These changes aim to reduce errors and ease onboarding for new users.

For a complete look at the project, including research findings, user personas, detailed flows, and annotated design decisions, please contact me to request the full case study. I’d be happy to share a walkthrough or presentation tailored to your interests. This version goes beyond the highlights to show how insights were translated into thoughtful UX solutions.

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