My TBR list for 2026 and holds on Libby

Using the Libby app to access digital books from your library is a fantastic way to save money and enjoy a wide array of reading options. As you’ve noticed, the number of books you can hold or check out depends largely on how many library cards you have linked in the app. Each library card corresponds to a separate library account, and many users increase their digital borrowing capacity by adding multiple library cards from different libraries to their Libby app. For example, if you currently have one library card allowing you to check out up to 5 books and place 5 holds, adding more library cards from other libraries where you have membership can significantly increase these limits—sometimes allowing users to hold or check out upwards of 20 books. This often explains the difference between your limits and those of other users who have more library affiliations linked to their Libby app. Another factor affecting holds and checkouts is the policy set by each individual library. Different libraries may impose different limits on how many materials patrons can check out or place on hold, based on their budgets and digital inventory. In your TBR (To Be Read) list for 2026, curated on Libby, you have a substantial number of books and audiobooks tagged, including favorites like "Alchemy of Secrets" by Stephanie Garber and "Network Effect" by Martha Wells. Strategically managing your holds can help you get through your list more efficiently. For instance, by prioritizing holds that have shorter wait times or are currently available, you can maximize your reading time and reduce waiting periods. Additionally, monitoring holds carefully is important because the hold queue and availability directly impact how soon you can check out a book. For example, you might be 1st in line for "Network Effect," but 5th for "Unoffendable," which may have longer wait times. If you're interested in expanding your library access, consider checking if your local area has a library consortium or reciprocal borrowing agreements that allow you to get additional library cards at no cost. Adding these to your Libby app can multiply your options dramatically. In summary, the key to maximizing your Libby app experience and successfully managing your 2026 TBR list lies in understanding the borrowing limits linked to your library accounts and exploring ways to add more cards. This, combined with strategic holds management and prioritizing available titles, can help you read more widely and efficiently in the coming year.