Browse the library. If you're interested in reading any of the books in the library, log in (sign up for an account) and check the book out. The book will come to you through the mail, along with a postage-paid return mailer. You can check out up to two books at one time.

There's no hurry in returning any book. Take your time; don't feel rushed. When you're through with the book, put it in the padded mailer and mail it back. Then come back to the site, and post any comments that you have on the book -- let people know why they should read it or avoid it.

If the book you want to read is checked out already (it will say "in Phoenix, Arizona," for example, next to the book name), you can sign up for the Booklend mailing list to receive notice when books become available on the Booklend Notifylist. If you don't want to sign up for the mailing list, keep checking back on the website.

In the United States, books are mailed Book Rate (now called "Media Mail"), which means that it will take some time to get to you. Don't be concerned if it's been two weeks and the book hasn't yet arrived.

Currently, books are only being loaned to the United States and Canada. Loans will be allowed shortly for users outside of the U.S. and Canada. For logistical reasons, Canadian users will have to pay the return postage on the book.