The titles the Library has access to on our eBook platforms will often have different access options/models. These are usually set by the publishers rather than a choice made by the Library.
Some titles on Ebook Central work on a credit basis where you are initially given a 5 minute preview, but are then prompted to check the book out to continue using it. By checking the book out, you use one of the Library's credits and will have access to the title for a 24 hour period. This does not "download" the book but keeps a record that you have 'checked it out' so you can carry on reading it online for one day. If you do not want to continue reading, please close the page.
Troubleshooting
If you cannot click the 'check out book' link as illustrated below, this usually indicates a software problem or incompatibility with your internet browser. We have had reports of issues with Edge and Safari so please try Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome instead. If this does not help, please Contact the Library.
1. You will have clicked the Read Online option:
2. The book will open:
3. After 5 minutes a pop-up will appear asking you to select the loan length:
4. The loan length is usually pre-set to 1 day and cannot be changed. You will need to click on the link to 'Check Out Ebook' to be able to carry on reading it.
This will "lock" the book to your user account for 24 hours so if you close it and come back within 24 hours you will not see the 'check out' prompt again. You can see how much time is left by looking at the left-hand side of the page under 'Loan Information' when you are in the book:
