EBooks at the University of Iowa
At the University of Iowa Libraries, we are regularly adding new ebook titles to our collection that can be accessed in an online or digital format.
Just like with print titles, ebooks often have access conditions and terms of use set by a vendor platform or publisher.
This guide page answers some common questions we get about using ebooks by looking at how copyright, digital rights management, and user licenses can impact your access to ebooks available at University of Iowa Libraries.
How Are eBooks Made Available to UI Students?
Ebooks are made available through the University of Iowa Libraries in two ways:
- Outright Purchase
These titles and subsequent number of copies are purchased individually.
2. Package Subscription
These titles are available for the length of the subscription (typically a year). After the date lapses, the ebook is no longer available.
But, what does this mean for students?
Ebooks are still subject to copyright and licensing agreements like printed books. These restrictions impact the number of times an ebook can be loaned out, the number of students that can view a title at one time, and the number of pages that can be printed or downloaded from an ebook.
Why can't I access an ebook?
There can be a couple of different reasons why you are having trouble using an ebook in our collection.
Copyright is controlled by a publisher directly or a third-party platform. This is done through limiting the number of copies they provide and limits in how the ebooks are used and accessed.
Restrictions on Copies:
- A publisher may limit the number of copies (sometimes referred to as 'seats') a university may purchase
- The cost of each digital copy may also restrict the number of copies a university will buy
- Ebooks available through subscription leases can also be restricted to the number of people that can use an online copy at one time.
Access Limits:
- These are used by publishers to control how an ebook book can be accessed. For example, some ebooks can only be accessed when connected to the University of Iowa's Wi-Fi network. Other ebook titles are available even when you are "offline", making it easier to study and research from home.
- Access limits also impact how you can use an ebook, such as placing restrictions on the number of pages you can download or print.
How can I tell if the ebook I am trying to access has restrictions?
After you have located an ebook using our catalog, click on "view ebook". You will be able to locate an "availability" header that will include any restrictions placed on the number of copies available. Below is an example from ProQuest, which makes Jane Eyre available to an unlimited number of readers at a given time.
On the same page, you can see that there are restrictions placed on the number of pages that can be printed or copied. However, I can download a copy of the whole book for 21 days and access it when I am offline.
Assistive Technologies
The Main Library provides access to a Visual Image Enhancer that can be used to enlarge text. To make arrangements to use this equipment, please contact the Main Library Circulation Department during their normal business hours or email lib-maincirc@uiowa.edu
For more information about support services and assistive technologies at the University of Iowa Libraries, please visit the following pages: