For Orange County Library System cardholders who want to delve deeper into current events or their favorite hobby, RBdigital offers online access to current issues of dozens of high-quality magazines that would collectively cost an individual subscriber hundreds of dollars a year. To get started, login with your library card number and PIN on the library’s website. Then you will need to use your email address to create an RBdigital account.

Each magazine issue must be checked out individually. They can be read on the RBdigital website on a regular computer or using the app on a tablet or smartphone. It is available in Apple’s App Store, Google Play or on the Kindle Fire. Watch this video tutorial for guidance on using the app – the relevant piece for magazines starts at 2:43. If you are interested in buying a tablet for reading but not sure how to choose one, check out our buyer’s guide for tablets and e-readers. 

These are just some highlights of the available publications. You can also read about cars, travel, sports and much more. Children and teens have a handful of titles to choose from as well.

News 

The Economist 

Despite its name, the pages of the London-based Economist are mostly filled with a variety of news stories from around the globe presented from a refreshingly even-handed perspective. The latest in business, economics and the arts are covered as well.

Also available: Mother Jones, Newsweek, The Week.  

Lifestyle 

Bon Appétit 

Feel classy (and probably hungry) just by reading Bon Appétit. The expected mouth-watering photos and recipes are supplemented with profiles of gastronomic destinations and cooking gadgets. A must-read for foodies with elevated tastes.  

Also available: Cook’s Illustrated, Food Network Magazine, Good Housekeeping, House Beautiful, Men’s Health, Mother Earth News, O, The Oprah Magazine, Prevention, Runner’s World, Wine Enthusiast, Women’s Health. 

Arts 

The New Yorker 

The New Yorker is considered by many to be the gold standard in several categories, especially longform journalism, cartoons and short stories. Artsy types will appreciate reviews of the latest films, books, music and even art exhibitions.  

Also available: Aperture, Computer Arts, The Hollywood Reporter, Rolling Stone, The Writer, Writer’s Digest. 

Science 

National Geographic 

It has long been famous, of course, for its breathtaking photos. These days National Geographic is not just a window into the past or faraway lands, though it still excels there. Recent issues dig deep into relevant topics that can impact our daily lives.  

Also available: Astronomy, Audubon, Discover, ID (Ideas & Discovery), Popular Science, Smithsonian.  

Technology 

Wired 

What sets Wired apart is its coverage of not only the latest developments in technology but our relationship to it. Insights abound on digital privacy, climate change, food supply, space travel and other challenges that technology created or can help to overcome.  

Also available: AppleMagazine, Mac|Life, Macworld, PC Magazine, PCWorld, Popular Mechanics.

Spanish Language 

Muy Interesante

Spanish speakers can certainly find something very interesting and timely to read about in this magazine from Spain. In-depth reporting on history, science, technology and current events blends beautifully with accompanying photos and charts.    

Also available: ¡Hola! 

You can also use your RBdigital account to access audiobooks, The Great Courses, concert videos, British TV shows and Spanish language TV shows. If you encounter any issues with electronic resources, OCLS staff will continue to provide assistance through answering your help requests.