Did you know OverDrive, the creator of the Libby app, is a Certified B Corp? Probably. We're pretty proud of it! Other B Corp brands like Ben & Jerry's, Patagonia, Warby Parker and more are doing their part to use business as a force for good and create a better future for everyone.

What is a B Corp?

If you’ve ever noticed the circled “B” on anything from your snack packaging to a label on your new pair of pants, you may have wondered about the story behind it. That “B” lets you know the product is from a B Corp, a business committed to social and environmental good. Those that have received this challenging certification must continually prove that they’re balancing profit with purpose.

March is B Corp month, and to celebrate, we’re diving into more about how OverDrive, the creators of Libby, and many other brands are doing their bit for a brighter future.

How brands become B-certified

Currently, there are over 8,000 Certified B Corporations (and counting!) in more than 96 countries and over 160 industries such as manufacturing, consulting, solar energy and law. All have one goal: To use business to benefit people, communities and the planet. But it’s no small feat to get there. To receive the B Corp Certification, companies must complete a rigorous assessment of their practices and outputs across five categories: Governance, workers, community, the environment and customers.

Organizations are certified by B Lab, a third-party nonprofit network, and the certification can take years to finalize. It’s a challenge to achieve—as it should be. In 2017, OverDrive proudly announced its certification and inclusion in this global movement for good.

Libby supports libraries

Working toward the greater good is just good business, and it’s just something libraries do every day. OverDrive’s mission from Day 1 has been rooted in supporting these efforts.

Our B Corp Certification reinforces our pledge to effect positive change by working together with public libraries to empower communities and support literacy. By borrowing from your local library through the Libby app, you can feel good knowing you’re supporting this vital community resource and casting a conscious vote for better business.

Your dollar, your choice

As more of us strive to be more ethical consumers, we seek out companies that work to do things in a better way. Our dollar is our vote, and many of us choose to cast it for brands with transparent and sustainable practices, and those that choose to be kind to their employees and the planet.

For an easy way to identify these brands that are good to people and the planet, use this tool to find Certified B Corp companies near you.

In addition to the companies mentioned above, here are 10 more B Corp companies that you can feel good about supporting:

• Athleta: Premium performance apparel designed by women athletes to inspire a community of active, confident women and girls
• Olipop: A healthier and tastier alternative to soda
• Beautycounter: Creating safer skin care and cleaner cosmetics
• Purely Elizabeth: Granola and oatmeal made with certified gluten-free oats and organic ancient grains
• Kickstarter: Funding community for creative projects from films, games, art, technology and more
• Coursera: Online learning platform on a mission to provide universal access to world-class learning
• Dr. Bronners: Top-selling brand of organic and fair trade body care products
• Eileen Fisher: Maker of simple, timeless, socially conscious and eco-friendly clothing
• Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams: Award-winning ice cream maker known for its one-of-a-kind flavors created in partnership with the growers, makers and producers who supply the ingredients
• Cabot Creamery: Locally owned and operated dairy manufacturer focused on improving animal care and enriching communities

• ... and of course, OverDrive, the creator of the Libby app! Borrow an ebook or audiobook from your library and feel good about the difference we’re all making together.

Learn more about the movement

Check out the B Corp website to learn more or get involved in the conversation on social with #BCorpMonth.