Ebooks work the same as print books in traditional libraries, only Ebooks are in a virtual library. Some Ebooks allow unlimited use and some are controlled by Digital Rights Management (DRM) which can limit the number of users and the amount of time an Ebook can be viewed and downloaded, such as 3 concurrent users only or a 7-day viewing period. This is a way for publishers to control who can read purchased Ebooks, and to restrict what can be done with them. The library always aims to purchase Ebooks that are DRM-free to allow for unlimited usage and download. However, publishers do not always offer Ebooks that are DRM-free.
The ebook I want to access is "in use". What does this mean?
When all copies of an ebook are being read online by other users, you will see a message saying “Sorry, this eBook is in use” or that ”All copies are currently in use”. For ProQuest books, you will also see the “Read Online” button is greyed out. Try accessing this ebook later to see if it has become available. You may need to refresh your browser to show the book’s current status. To find out how many users can access an ebook at the same time see this ebook FAQ for instructions.
Accessing and searching for Ebooks can be done in several ways.
The majority of our Ebooks can be downloaded in standard PDF file. Some are controlled by Digital Rights Management (DRM), which limit the amount of time an Ebook can be viewed and downloaded. Specific software such as Adobe Digital Editions and BlueFire Reader are required.
See the Reading online & downloading Ebooks offline page for a step-by-step guide on how to download DRM Ebooks on Adobe Digital Editions and BlueFire Reader.
Ebooks can be viewed on PC, laptop, and mobile device such as smart phones or tablets. Online reading requires no software other then the mobile device internet browser. The majority of our Ebooks can be downloaded in standard PDF file. Some Ebook platforms offer apps to read on smartphones and tablets, refer to Database apps.
Offline reading on mobile devices requires specific software such as Adobe Digital Editions and BlueFire Reader. See the offline page for a step-by-step guide on how to download DRM Ebooks Adobe Digital Editions and BlueFire Reader.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are advised that this website may contain images, voices and names of people who have died.
The University of Sydney Library acknowledges that its facilities sit on the ancestral lands of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, who have for thousands of generations exchanged knowledge for the benefit of all. Learn more
