How to Add Pre-Owned Books to Kindle

by Mary Jo Megginson
You can download Kindle e-books onto a wide variety of mobile devices.

You can download Kindle e-books onto a wide variety of mobile devices.

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Kindles are portable e-book readers first introduced by Amazon in 2007. They connect wirelessly to the Amazon network, allowing users to download digital media directly onto the device. Free applications allow users to download Kindle e-books onto other types of devices, such as a BlackBerry, iPod Touch or personal computer. Once you purchase an e-book, it is stored in the Kindle library or archive where it can be accessed and downloaded to any device registered to your Amazon account. This can be important if you purchase a new Kindle and wish to be able to access books you have already purchased for use on an older device.

Using Wireless Connection

Step 1

Slide and release the power switch located on the bottom of the device to turn on your new Kindle.

Step 2

Click the "Menu" button and select "Turn Wireless On."

Step 3

Press "Menu" again and use the 5-way controller to select "Settings" on the screen.

Step 4

Select "Register."

Step 5

Enter the email address and password associated with your Amazon Kindle account then click "Submit."

Step 6

Click the "Home" button on your Kindle and select "Archived Items."

Step 7

Scroll to the previously purchased book you wish to access from your new Kindle and click the 5-way controller to select and download it.

Using a Computer

Step 1

Sign in to your Amazon.com account and click "Manage Your Kindle" at the bottom of the Home page.

Step 2

Enter the serial number located on the back of your Kindle in the box provided and click "Register a New Kindle." A list of your previously purchased content will appear.

Step 3

Click "+" beside e-book you wish to transfer to your new Kindle and select "Send Wirelessly to Kindle."

Step 4

Select your new Kindle from the list of devices. The e-book will download the next time you turn on your Kindle.

Tip

  • There is no limit to how many times you can download a purchased book to a device registered to your account.

About the Author

Mary Jo Megginson has been writing since 1992 in academic and professional settings. Her experience ranges from writing policy documents and text panels for museums to technical writing for a major software company. She holds a Master of Arts in anthropology from McMaster University and a Master of Museum Studies from the University of Toronto.

Photo Credits

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