How to Transfer Books From an iPad to a Computer

By Danielle Fernandez

You don't have to leave those books on your iPad.
i Mario Tama/Getty Images News/Getty Images

When you connect your iPad to the iTunes software installed on your computer, you can configure it to synchronize and back up its digital content -- including the book files stored in the iBooks app -- to your hard drive. Other e-reading apps like Kindle or Nook instead use iTunes File Sharing, which allows you to individually select and then drag and drop the book files you wish to transfer. You can use these book files to organize your e-library, convert them to other e-book formats or share them with friends.

Synchronize iTunes Books Tab

Step 1

Connect your iPad to your computer using a USB cable and allow iTunes to automatically launch. Select your iPad from the list of available devices.

Step 2

Select "Books" on the left, and ensure the "Sync Books" check box is enabled.

Step 3

Place a check mark next to the books you want to transfer. Select "Sync." The files from your iBooks app are now saved to your computer.

Use iTunes File Sharing

Step 1

Select the "Apps" tab at the top and scroll to the bottom of the window.

Step 2

Select an e-book reading app from the list on the left. For example, if you use the Kindle app for e-reading, you will see it listed.

Step 3

Drag and drop the files you wish to transfer to your computer from the window on the right.

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