What You Get:
Free access to thousands of ebooks that can be read on your computer or supported portable devices.
What You Need:
- Your library card
- A computer with Internet access and a web browser of your choice
- Free Adobe Digital Editions software (available for Windows and Mac computers)
What you do:
Step 1: Select the Downloadables Collection link from the eBooks and Audiobooks webpage. (Downloadable titles are also available in our catalog.)
Step 2: First-time users will need to download the Adobe Digital Editions software. Select the Help link in the upper right-hand corner of the homepage, then click the "Software" link on the following page. Follow the instructions to download and activate Adobe Digital Editions on your computer. (Kindle owners, pleaser refer to our New User's Guide for the Kindle for details about working with Kindle books.)
Once you've downloaded and activated Adobe Digital Editions, you're ready to checkout your first ebook!
Step 3: Browse for titles using the menu at the top of the page, the rotating slideshows, or use the search box at the top of the page. You can also use “Advanced Search” to limit your search to specific file formats, subjects, or to only show titles with copies available.
Check for the book icon in the top right corner of the cover image. If a title isn't available for checkout, the icon will be greyed out, and you'll need to place a hold on the book (you'll be notified by email when the title is ready to be downloaded).
Step 4: Once you find an ebook you'd like to download, make sure it's available in a format that is compatible with your computer or eReader. Click the “Borrow,” button, enter your library card number, then select the "Go to Bookshelf" button to download the title.
Click the "Download" drop-down menu, then select your preferred format for your device.
Your download should automatically open in Adobe Digital Editions. You can use Adobe Digital Editions to read the book on your computer or transfer it to a supported eReader.
Step 5: Please note: before transferring ebooks, your eReader must be activated with your Adobe ID. You will be prompted to register your eReader the first time you connect the device to Adobe Digital Editions.
Once you've done this, drag and drop your eBook to the “Bookshelf” for your eBook reader.
If you'd like to see what titles you have checked out or need to re-download a book, click on the “Account” link at the top of the Downloadables homepage to access your “Bookshelf” again. From here, you can also check your “Holds” page for titles you've ordered and visit your “Settings” page to change your loan periods.
Questions?
- Check out our “Frequently-Asked Questions” or select the Help” link on the Downloadables homepage.
- Use the “Help” link at the top of the Downloadables homepage, then select "Support" to send questions via email.
- Contact the Virtual Information Center by phone: 513-369-6900.