This guide provides an overview of where you can find ebooks through QMU Library, some key accessibility features and services available, and answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs).
The most important thing to be aware of when it comes to e-books is that they don't always offer unlimited access to unlimited users. . If the number of users trying to access an e-book is higher than the number of licences we have, the extra users will be "turned-away" (temporarily denied access) at that moment in time until one or more users stop accessing the book, thus freeing one or more of the "copies". The number of concurrent users allowed vary and can sometime be ascertained on the e-book's landing page (but not always). Sometimes the library catalogue might have a note on the book's record. Some platforms use a queuing system which you can attach to whereby they can email you when the book becomes available, while with other platforms, users need to check back later to see when a copy of an e-book becomes available.
There are three main ways to find ebooks available to you through QMU Library:
1. On Canvas in the Resource List section of your module (or a reading list somewhere else if your lecturer or module leader does not use Talis Resource Lists tool and/or Canvas)
2. Through QMU Discover, the Library's search tool for journal articles, books, ebooks and other resources
3. Through the library catalogue, which only contains information about books and ebooks
See below for guidance on how to search for ebooks in QMU Discover and the library catalogue
To find ebooks in QMU Discover:
1. Go to QMU Discover (or find a QMU Discover search box on the library website, embedded in a subject guide, or on Canvas)
2. Use keywords, author or title details to search for the book(s) you are looking for
3. Use the All Filters button below the search box to narrow the Source Type to ebooks (see pictures below)
To find ebooks in the library catalogue (an older system, which only contains information about print and ebooks at QMU):
1. Go to the QMU Library catalogue
2. Use keywords, author or title details to search for the book(s) you are interested in
3. Use the Modify Search button to narrow down the Material Type to ebooks (see pictures below):
Watch the video below (20 mins) for an overview of how to find ebooks available via QMU Library
Depending on what platform QMU e-books are available from, you may require a PDF Reader. Most of the time, however, an internet browser is sufficient. To download books for offline access, you will need Adobe Digital Editions a free program (different than Adobe Reader). If using a mobile device, the Adobe Digital Editions App is also free to download.