Textbook Alternatives: Library Ebooks

It is possible that your library may have an e-book version of a title you assign for a course.  If not, the library may be able to purchase an e-book version. Check with your librarian on possibilities.

This page describes some of advantages and disadvantages of using library e-books as course readings and provides some best practices in using library e-books as course readings.

Many e-books in library collections are purchased and owned by the library in perpetuity; while some other e-books are accessed as part of subscription services; rather than owned by the library.

For the typical researcher it doesn't really matter--if they can read the book, they have what they need. For an instructor who is using a book for course readings, it can make a difference. There is a small chance that books accessed via a subscription service will "disappear" from the collection. 

Let your librarian know when you are planning to use a library e-book for course readings, as they may be able to point you to a more stable version.

Attribution: List provided by Julia Nims, Scholarly Communications Librarian at Eastern Michigan University and posted with her permission.

Library e-books can be helpful when academic or trade books are assigned for course readings.  Be aware, however that not every title is available for purchase as a library e-book, and standard textbook publishers rarely offer library versions of their e-books.

eBook Advantages

• Students can access them for free with an institutional login from off campus.
•  No particular e-book reader or other special device is needed: Library e-books can be read via an internet browser on a desktop computer or laptop.
• Unlike print reserves, no staff intermediation is required.
• Some library e-books can be purchased in unlimited multiple user versions which allow simultaneous access.
• Some library e-books may be accessible to students with special needs.
   

eBook Disadvantages

• National surveys show that students prefer studying with print books that they can highlight and annotate. 
• The library e-book provides an option for low-income students that may otherwise try to get by with just lecture notes.
• Many library e-books must be read online and have only limited options for downloading or printing content.
• Many e-book titles are only available in a one-person at a time version.
• Although e-books work well on computers and laptops, they don't always work or display well on phones, i-pads, and other devices.

Multiple user e-books vs. single user ebooks

Some library e-books allow any number of readers to access the book simultaneously. Some can only be purchased as a single user book, where only one user at a time can access the book and a 2nd simultaneous user must wait for the first to stop reading the book. In a few cases, librarians have the option to purchase a 2 or 3 simultaneous user version.

Using eBooks as Course Readings

• When assigning a substantial number of chapters from a book, it's helpful to also place orders for a print version with the bookstore. This provides an option for students who prefer to purchase a print copy.  If you are assigning just one chapter from an e-book, consider also placing a print copy of the book on library reserves, as this provides an option for students who are less comfortable using e-books.
   
• If assigning an e-book, it is important to understand access procedures. Most important is to provide a fail-safe link that works from off campus. Consult with your librarians on the best way to provide e-book links.
• Unlike most web pages, referring students to the link you see in your browser address window is likely to fail. The link from the browser might not work at a different time and place. It also might not work from off campus.

When assigning a library e-book, your librarian may be able to provide advice that could prevent access headaches. If you experience problems with accessing an e-book, discuss this with your librarian.