OU Libraries offers an extensive collection of eBooks across a wide range of subjects. These eBooks come from various publishers and are hosted on multiple platforms. You can access them by searching Library OneSearch or by browsing the eBook collections listed on our Database A-Z web page. Access, downloading, and printing guidelines vary by publisher. To help navigate these differences, we're including a link here to a guide that outlines the features and capabilities of our main eBook publishers and platforms.
Some eBook publishers use Digital Rights Management (DRM) to enforce copyright protection, which may restrict how much content you can print, download, or save. The eBook record provides key details, including the number of available copies, any applicable restrictions, and download options. Included here is a link to examples of eBook records from two of our main providers.
Viewing an eBook Online: You can read the eBook directly in your web browser without checking it out or installing any additional software. An internet connection is required for access.
Downloading an eBook: This allows you to read the eBook offline. Depending on the platform, you may need to create an account and install eBook reading software, such as Adobe Digital Editions or another compatible program.
The ability to download eBooks varies across provider platforms. Some platforms allow full book or chapter downloads with restrictions on the number of available copies and checkout duration, while others offer DRM-free eBooks with no limitations. Always check the eBook record for specific download options and requirements.
Whether you can print an eBook depends on the platform and publisher. Some publishers allow printing of a set number of chapters, pages, or a percentage of the book, with limitations that may reset after a specific time period, such as 24 hours. An exception to this is for EBSCO eBooks, where download and printing restrictions apply only to the user's current session. Always check the eBook record for specific printing restrictions.
The eBook record on the provider's site will provide detailed information on the restrictions for downloading, printing, and the number of users allowed to check out the eBook. It will specify things like the number of pages you can download or print and any other limitations. Some of our publishers offer DRM-free content, meaning there are no restrictions on downloading or printing. Always refer to the eBook record for the most accurate information.
The number of people who can use an eBook at one time depends on the publisher's restrictions and the type of access the library has purchased. Some eBooks offer unlimited use, allowing an unlimited number of users simultaneously. Others may have one- or three-user access, limiting the number of simultaneous users. Additionally, some eBooks use concurrent and non-linear access models, where a set number of uses are available per year. For more information, refer to the "Access Model" tab in the eBook record.
The default loan period for most eBooks is typically set to one day, with exceptions for eBooks that offer unlimited access or are included in subscription packages. If an eBook is DRM-free, it can be downloaded an unlimited number of times without an expiration date.
EPUB format is an open eBook standard designed to be optimized for viewing on various devices. It adjusts font size and automatically resizes to fit your screen, making it compatible with many eReaders and reading apps. On the other hand, a PDF is not a "reflowable" document, meaning you cannot adjust the presentation or optimize it for small screens. You are limited to increasing or decreasing the size of the page or zooming in and out.
DRM stands for Digital Rights Management, a form of copyright protection that can vary by publisher. DRM-free resources do not have these restrictions, meaning they can be copied, printed, downloaded, and saved in their entirety. Additionally, DRM-free eBooks can be accessed simultaneously by an unlimited number of users.
