Electronic books are the digital equivalent of conventional books. The book’s content is in digital format and requires software to interpret the digital content and display it for the user to read. The software is usually embedded seamlessly in the e-book to facilitate easy reading on a computer screen.
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Benefits of e-books
Because e-books are online, they can be accessed 24/7 from any computer with an internet connection. You don't need to physically be at the library in order to view electronic books.
The reader can search the entire text of a book and easily find the exact section of the book that is needed.
E-books can be read on many devices e.g. PC, tablet, smart phone
Some e-books can be accessed by multiple users simultaneously. Thereby you can avoid reservations and waiting.
Most, but not all, ebook interfaces allow the reader to:
The size of the text can be changed to suit the reader.
E-books may include interactive links, graphics, audio clips, animations, and videos
No fines for overdue books!
UB library purchases e-books from various publishers, but some publishers sell their e-books to individuals only and do not allow libraries to purchase their books in an electronic format. Textbooks are especially problematic and are generally not available on platforms that academic libraries have access to.
Some of the e-books and e-book websites only allow access to a limited number of UB members at the same time. You will get a message that the book is not available and you will have to try again later. However, in the time of Covid-19, some providers (such as Ebook Central and Ebsco Ebooks) have granted unlimited access to titles that UB owns on their website.
On most, but not all, e-book interfaces, clients can create a free, individual account which will allow the reader to: