eBook Basics

eBook and tablet image

What is an eBook?

An electronic book, also known as an e-book or eBook, is a book publication made available in digital form. It usually consists of text, images or both, and is readable on a computer or mobile device.

How do you loan eBooks?

Several third-party vendors sell eBooks to libraries for public lending, such as OverDrive and Axis 360.

If it's an eBook, why is there a wait list?

The purchase model for eBooks is different than for print books. We purchase a license for every copy ordered, usually for a term of two years or 26 to 52 checkouts, whichever comes first. In most cases, only one user can access a copy of an eBook at a time. We also get eBooks from hoopla Digital, which allows multiple users to borrow and access a single eBook title at a time.

How do I get started with eBooks?

If you are using a mobile device to access eBooks, then we recommend using the Libby by OverDrive app or Axis 360 app to manage your eBook checkouts and holds. You may also access these eBooks collections from a web browser by signing into your online OverDrive or Axis 360 account with your 14-digit library card number and PIN/password.

How do I borrow Kindle Books?

You may only borrow Kindle Books from OverDrive. See our FAQ for instructions on how to borrow Kindle Books from OverDrive and transfer them to your Kindle device or Kindle app.

How do I get one-on-one help with eBooks?

You can take one of our many eBook classes or bring your device (and any instruction manuals that came with your device) to the Digital Device Drop at The Bridge on the 5th Floor of the Main Library every Thursday from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. A selection of eBook classes is listed at the bottom of this page.

How do I get help with my mobile device?

Staff can only provide very basic assistance with mobile devices. If you are new to this kind of technology, we highly recommend that you take one of our free technology classes (see Events Calendar). You may also bring your device (and any instruction manuals that came with your device) to the Digital Device Drop at The Bridge on the 5th Floor of the Main Library every Thursday from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. A selection of eBook classes is listed on this page.