Some readers have heard of Harry Potter all their life – whether that be through friends, family, movies or merchandise – but have yet to read the books themselves. Some are deeply familiar with the occupants of Number 4, Privet Drive, and those who roam the hallowed halls of Hogwarts, and are looking to rediscover the magic. Some would revel in the chance to enjoy Harry’s story in their native language or want to use the familiar words to learn a new one. Either way, for all these types of readers, there’s a new way to access the magical world of Harry Potter.

This September, consider Libby your patron’s ticket to the wizarding world – no trip to King’s Cross Station necessary. Thanks to our partners at Pottermore Publishing, libraries worldwide can offer readers free, unlimited access to Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s/Sorcerer’s Stone — in every language and format — all September long.

Turning the envelope over, his hand trembling, Harry saw a purple wax seal bearing a coat of arms; a lion, an eagle, a badger and a snake surrounding a large letter ‘H’.

Harry Potter has never even heard of Hogwarts when the letters start dropping on the doormat at number four, Privet Drive. Addressed in green ink on yellowish parchment with a purple seal, they are swiftly confiscated by his grisly aunt and uncle. Then, on Harry’s eleventh birthday, a great beetle-eyed giant of a man called Rubeus Hagrid bursts in with some astonishing news: Harry Potter is a wizard, and he has a place at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. An incredible adventure is about to begin!

Having become classics of our time, the Harry Potter eBooks never fail to bring comfort and escapism. With their message of hope, belonging and the enduring power of truth and love, the story of the Boy Who Lived continues to delight generations of new readers.

How to get started

• If your library already participates in campaigns like Libby Reads, you’re all set! You’ll be automatically opted in to receive free, unlimited access to this title beginning Sept. 1, with nothing further required on your end.
• Not sure whether your library is already opted in? Reach out to your Account Manager to confirm. Once opted in, patrons will have unlimited access to the title from Sept. 1 – 30.

Accessible ebook and audio available

We know all learners are built differently, which is why this special opportunity includes both the ebook and the audiobook of this in many languages, including Spanish, French, German, Arabic, Japanese, Italian, and more!

Plus, by reading in Libby, patrons can enjoy personalization options like adjustable font types and sizes, a built-in dictionary, and highlighting features, among others — all designed to meet readers where they are. Like most things in the wizarding world, the secret is hidden in plain sight. You just need to know exactly where to tap the bricks.

A little extra magic

Looking for ways to bring the book to life in your library? Pottermore Publishing and Libby are one step ahead — here are a few ready-to-use ideas to get you started:

• Access our free marketing kit
• Create a campaign in Libby to promote a library-wide simultaneous read
• Host a trivia/discussion night to get HP fans of all ages involved
• Ask followers on social to engage with a Hogwarts House survey or share their most impactful HP memories in the comments.

The book’s availability does the heavy lifting; everything else is extra credit (Hermione would be so proud!).

The restricted section

This month-long promotion only covers book one — and most of the time, that’s all it takes. Readers who finish it tend to come looking for the next one on their own, so it’s worth having easy to find in Libby when they do (full series is available in Marketplace here).

Mark your calendar

Grab the promo kit and get ready to welcome a new generation of witches, wizards, and lifelong readers.

About the author: When she’s not working or reading, she can be found playing with her pets, attending local concerts, or spending time with friends and family. While Maddi loves reading across genres, some of her favorite titles include the Dungeon Crawler Carl series by Matt Dinniman, Mary by Nat Cassidy and Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix.

About the author: Gabriela Mendicino is a lifelong reader, houseplant addict, and literal tree-hugger. She lives in the Cleveland area with the Mendicino Menagerie (two kids, two dogs, three cats, a lot of fish, and one sometimes-grumpy man) and can and will launch into a tirade about how much she loves them so, you know…watch out for that.