E-Book Collections: FAQ

1. Can I use eBook content in my Canvas site for a class assignment? How do I know if I can or not?

In the full record for an eBook, click on the link "[view license terms]." This provides information on whether you can attach full pages of eBook content in a class management system, or, if you have to use links to urls instead:

• Copies for course reserves prohibited; use links
• Course Reserve Electronic Copy: Permitted

See our Step-by-Step Guide to Copyright Compliance for more information on providing legal access to electronic materials.

2. Can I access eBook materials while I'm at the library?

Yes, eBook materials can be used by walk-in users while visiting the library, as well as those with a Net ID. For more information, check our Access & Use Limits guide.

3. Can I print sections of eBooks?

The rules for what you may print can vary by the resource, and you'll need to check the individual item to determine the limit. Here's an example of page printing limitations from EBSCOhost eBook Collection:

You can also check our Access & Use Limits guide to check certain printing limits.

4. Can off-campus borrowers use eBooks?

You can access resources from a personal computer or device if you are a current UW student, staff, or faculty by using your Net ID. If you are not a current UW student, staff or faculty, there are certain electronic materials you may access while visiting the library. Visit the Access & Use Limits page to see if Walk-in Users are authorized to view the applicable resource.

5. Can I download specific portions of eBooks to a flash drive?

Many eBooks come with the option to download the resource as a PDF, without the use of Adobe Digital Editions or Bluefire Reader. In these cases, you should be able to save the PDF to a flash drive.

6. How can I tell if the library has this book available electronically? How can I search for eBooks only?

You can tell if something is an eBook by the label above the title:

Additionally, if a resource has a link that says "Online access," you will be able to access the resource electronically.

For more detailed instructions about how to search only for eBooks, visit the Finding eBooks page.

7. Can I request an eBook that isn't held by UW Libraries through Interlibrary Loan? 

Because of eBook licensing rules, unfortunately eBooks cannot be accessed through Interlibrary Loan options. For more information about Interlibrary Loans, visit the Summit Borrowing FAQ or the UW Libraries ILL "How do I request a book/article we don't have?" page.