Digital Materials

What’s an eBook?

It’s a digital, often downloadable, version of a printed book that can be read on a computer, and in most cases on a tablet or smartphone. It may include videos, audio clips, interactive models, quizzes, or allow you to take and share notes, highlight or search for keywords.

Where can I find information on an eBook such as access, print limits, device sharing limits and other features?

Most eBooks use DRM (Digital Rights Management) to control how many downloads are allowed, and other aspects of book access.

For detailed eBook information, look at the text to the right of the eBook image on the search results page. Click on the ’Provider' link within the eBook details, the DRM details will appear in a pop-up, and show you:

• Access - how you can access the book (web-based or download).
• Format - publishing company info and format.
• Partial Content - will only display if a specific chapter(s) of the digital book is included.
• Print Limit - what percentage of the eBook you can print.
• Copy/Paste Limit - what percentage of the eBook you can copy and paste into other programs.
• Device Sharing Limit - how many devices you can use to download and share the eBook.
• Refundable - if an eBook is eligible for return. 

Sometimes, the DRM pop-up will also give you information on accessing/activating your eBook. 

Is my eBook accessible via the web?

Possibly, some eBooks are accessible via the web. Check the book’s description for this information.

Do I need to be connected to the Internet to read my eBook?

Good news, once you've downloaded your eBook, it’s available whenever you want.  However, you may need to be online to sync or access certain features.

What is an eReader application?

It’s a free application that allows you to use your eBooks.

Can I read my eBook on more than one device?

Most eBooks allow you to read your eBook on two devices. Some may allow more. Check the eBook's DRM for specific details.

Can I print my eBook?

Yes, but with limits. Publishers restrict the number of pages you can print from eBooks, usually only allowing 30% of an eBook to be printed. These restrictions are listed in the eBook's DRM so you can make an informed buying decision.

Can I download my eBook more than once?

You can download a book twice under the DRM (Digital Rights Management) rules set by eBook publishers. 

How do I rent or purchase an eBook?

You can purchase or rent an eBook at your campus bookstore or online from your campus website. Online, the available formats will be listed to the right of the book (e.g., "Buy New," "Buy Used," "Rent Digital"). "Digital" = eBook. After checkout, you’ll receive an email with instructions and links to activate or download your eBook.

How do I return my eBook at the end of my rental term?

You don’t have to do a thing. The eBook license will automatically expire. After this time, you’ll no longer have access to the materials.

I purchased/rented this eBook but no longer want it. Can I return it?

eBook vendors determine whether their titles are eligible for return. Check the book’s DRM for this information.

For eBooks that are eligible, the return must be made within 14 days of the date of purchase or rental. eBooks are not eligible for a refund if the material was downloaded or the access code was used.

Why can't I find the book I want as an eBook?

Not every title is available as an eBook, but publishers are continually adding new titles to their digital line-up.

What is DRM (Digital Rights Management)?

DRM is the tool used by eBook publisher to prevent the unauthorized copying, printing and use of their eBooks. DRM rules are set by publishers. These restrictions are found on our website, enabling you to make an informed purchase decision. 

What is the digital delivery fee?

Similar to a shipping charge for delivering physical (print) course materials, the digital delivery fee supports the delivery of digital content on our digital platform. 

Why do some of my digital materials have a digital delivery fee and others do not?

The fee is determined on a vendor by vendor basis. Some of our digital content providers do not allow additional fees to be charged.

If I purchase multiple quantities of a digital material, do I get charged the digital delivery fee for each?

Yes, the digital delivery fee is charged for each eligible digital item.

How do I tell which products are charged the digital delivery fee?

In general, any digital course materials that are delivered through an integration and the store does not carry inventory on hand are charged the digital delivery fee. This includes product where access information is printed on your receipt for in-store purchases or provided through your online order confirmation email. 

When shopping online, an information tooltip  displays for each eligible digital title.  When selecting any eligible digital title to add to bag, a notification message displays  below the Add to Bag button. The tooltip as well as a summary of the quantity and total fee amount displays on the Order Summary section of the Shopping Bag and in Checkout. The Order Status Update email identifies the eligible digital titles and fee amount for the order. 

Is the digital delivery fee refundable?

No. The fee is used to support the technology that delivers the digital title to you. We also use that same technology to reverse the digital transaction for a return. 

Can I use my financial aid to cover the digital delivery fee?

Yes, your financial aid covers the fee, as long as there are no restrictions in place on what it can cover. If your financial aid restricts covering the digital delivery fee, you will need to pay the fee with a different tender.