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Research Guides

E-Books at UW: Downloading E-Books

Information on searching, accessing, and using e-books at the UW Libraries

Introduction

This section of the guide will address questions about downloading e-books from UW Libraries Search.

The steps for downloading are broken down based on vendors, including:

The steps are displayed in desktop formats, with notes for downloading to mobile devices to the right.

Tips for downloading/ transferring e-books to e-readers can be found under the E-Reader section. 

EPUB vs PDF

EPUB

  • Preferred for e-readers (smart phones, Kindles, NOOKs)
  • Display can be altered to change size of text

PDF

  • A standardized file format
  • Preferred for computer reading
  • Maintains a static structure that can be zoomed in and out

Software

Some software may be required before you download materials:

  • Adobe Digital Editions (ADE)
    • A free e-book reader software program from Adobe. 
    • Used for acquiring, managing, and reading e-books, digital newspapers, and other digital publications. 
    • Supports EPUB and PDF.
  • Adobe ID
    • The email address you used when you first subscribed or purchased an Adobe app or service
    • Required for accessing DRM (Digital Rights Management) protected e-books
  • Apps for Mobile Devices (Cell phones and tablets)
    • Bluefire Reader
      • Free app 
      • Compatible with Apple iOS, Android, and Windows devices 
      • Adobe ID required
    • Pocketbook 
      • Free app
      • Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices
      • Adobe ID required
    • Adobe Digital Editions (Mobile App)
      • Free app
      • Not recommended due to slow interface