Frequently Asked Questions¶
Where are my books stored?¶
Alcove stores your books in its own private storage — you don't need to find or manage the files manually. To see the book count, total size, and sync status for the current library, choose Library → Show Library Info or tap the ⓘ button in the toolbar.
When you import a book, Alcove makes its own copy. The original file — wherever you imported it from — is left where it was.
Does Alcove read DRM-protected books?¶
No. Alcove cannot open, import, or display DRM-protected books. This includes Kindle AZW files with DRM and EPUBs locked by publisher DRM. Only DRM-free files can be imported.
Books purchased from Apple Books are typically DRM-protected and cannot be imported. Books from sources like Humble Bundle, Standard Ebooks, Smashwords, and direct publisher sales are usually DRM-free.
MOBI and AZW3 files without DRM can be imported — Alcove reads the Amazon format directly.
Can I use Alcove without iCloud?¶
Yes. When creating a new library, uncheck Sync via iCloud to keep it local. Local libraries work exactly like iCloud libraries — the only difference is they don't sync to other devices.
You can have a mix of iCloud and local libraries. See Multiple Libraries.
Will Alcove modify my book files?¶
No. Alcove never modifies the file you imported. When you import a book, Alcove makes its own copy — and that copy is Alcove's to manage. Changes you make in Alcove (replacing a cover, updating metadata) apply only to Alcove's copy. Your original source file is always left untouched.
How do I move my library to a new Mac or iPad?¶
If your library uses iCloud sync, it will appear automatically on the new device after you sign in with the same Apple ID and launch Alcove. Books are available immediately (metadata and covers) and the full files download in the background as you open them.
For a local-only library on Mac, choose Library → Export Library… to export your metadata as a JSON file, then use Library → Import Library… on the new Mac to restore it. You'll need to re-import the book files separately.
Can I have the same library open on multiple devices at once?¶
Yes. iCloud syncs changes between devices automatically. If you edit the same book on two devices simultaneously, the most recently saved change wins when both sync. No data is lost.
Mac Multiple libraries can be open in separate windows at the same time.
iPad Only one library can be open at a time. Switch between libraries using the Library Manager.
How do I back up my library?¶
iCloud libraries are backed up automatically as part of your iCloud account — your book files, covers, and all metadata are preserved as long as your iCloud account is active.
For an explicit metadata backup, choose Library → Export Library… (Mac) to create a JSON file with all your book records (titles, ratings, tags, reading status, and more). This is useful for migrating to a new Mac or keeping an off-site snapshot of your catalog.
A book is missing its cover. How do I fix it?¶
Select the book and choose Book → Replace Cover… (or Control-click the book on Mac / touch and hold on iPad). The cover replacement sheet lets you search Open Library, Apple, and Google Books by title, or supply your own image from a file or the clipboard. See Cover Art for details.
How do I remove Alcove's data completely?¶
iPad Delete the app. The operating system removes all Alcove data automatically.
Mac Delete any libraries you want removed from within Alcove first (use the Library Manager), then delete the app from your Applications folder. For iCloud libraries, you can also remove the associated iCloud data from System Settings → Apple ID → iCloud → Manage Account Storage.
I found a bug or have a suggestion. How do I report it?¶
Use the Report a Problem… option in Settings (or gear menu on iPad) to submit a report directly from the app. You can also reach us at the support email listed on the App Store page.