diff --git a/src/calibre/gui2/library/models.py b/src/calibre/gui2/library/models.py
index 9f1a72b021..89008735fe 100644
--- a/src/calibre/gui2/library/models.py
+++ b/src/calibre/gui2/library/models.py
@@ -1216,7 +1216,9 @@ class DeviceBooksModel(BooksModel): # {{{
         return done
 
     def set_editable(self, editable):
-        self.editable = editable
+        # Cannot edit if metadata is sent on connect. Reason: changes will
+        # revert to what is in the library on next connect.
+        self.editable = editable and prefs['manage_device_metadata']!='on_connect'
 
     def set_search_restriction(self, s):
         pass