Converting to ePub (and Why Not Kindle)
Updated Nov 6, 2026
To turn a Master Library ebook into an ePub, start from the included Word file, simplify the layout, then convert it with Calibre, Google Docs or Reedsy Studio. You can sell the ePub in your own shop or on ebook stores whose rules accept it. Kindle is the exception: the Private Label License says products "cannot be distributed as a Kindle book", so don't upload Master Library products to Amazon KDP, however much you edit them. If you want your own book on Amazon, our Studio writes original books you own outright.
Which format where
| Format | Used by |
|---|---|
| Selling direct (your own shop, Payhip, Shopify). Use the designed PDF as it is. | |
| ePub | Apple Books, Kobo, Google Play Books, your own shop |
Step 1: Simplify the layout
The Library's designed PDFs use colour chapter openers, side-column headings, boxes and worksheet tables. That looks great as a PDF but doesn't flow well on an e-reader, where text reflows to the screen. In the Word file:
- Keep headings as Heading 1 (chapters) and Heading 2 (sections).
- Turn text boxes and side columns into normal paragraphs.
- Keep tables simple, or turn worksheets into lists.
- Remove headers, footers and page numbers (e-readers ignore them).
- Put a page break before each chapter.
- Keep images, but compress large ones.
Step 2: Convert
Calibre (free, Windows, Mac and Linux): Add books > pick the .docx > Convert books > output format EPUB > OK. Good for Apple Books, Kobo and Google Play Books.
Google Docs: File > Download > EPUB Publication (.epub). Quick, but check the result.
Other options: Reedsy Studio (web, free) and Draft2Digital (free to format, distributes to several stores). Vellum (Mac) is a paid option for polished layouts.
Step 3: Make it your own before publishing
PLR content is shared with other members, and ebook stores may reject or remove a book whose content matches other books. Before you upload:
- Rewrite the text in your own words and voice
- Add your own chapters, examples and stories
- Give it a new title, subtitle and cover
- Bring dated information up to date
Members with the AI Skill Pack can use the Your Edition skill, built to make a product clearly your own. It also checks how much of the original wording is left. See Why Master Library products can't go on Kindle.
Other stores
- Apple Books: ePub, via Apple Books for Authors
- Kobo: ePub, via Kobo Writing Life
- Google Play Books: ePub or PDF, via the Google Play Books Partner Center