Q. How do I read e-books?

The SLU library has several suppliers of e-books, and usage might vary.

Here is a short film on how to use e-books at SLU:

• How to find e-books

Normally it is only possible to read and download e-books if you are connected to the SLU network, either on campus, or via VPN. Read more about accessing electronic resources from home via VPN here. https://student.slu.se/en/study-support/it-support/support/access-to-databases-requires-vpn/

All e-books can be read online. Some e-books are also available in PDF format and can be downloaded without logging in, either as single chapters or as complete books.

Accessing DRM-protected ebooks

Some e-books are protected by digital rights management (DRM) software. To download and read these books you need to use specific software.

Here's how it works the first time you want to borrow and download an e-book with DRM protection:

Make sure you are connected to SLU's network, either on campus or via VPN.

Search for the e-book in Primo, and click on "Full text available".

Via computer: you download a link file (.ascm) that can be opened with the Adobe Digital Editions program. The program can be downloaded here: https://www.adobe.com/se/solutions/ebook/digital-editions/download.html 

Via mobile/tablet: You download a link file (.ascm) that can be opened in an app. Most providers recommend the Adobe Digital Editions app, but there are others, such as Kortext.

To use the program or app, you must first authorize it with an Adobe ID. If you don't already have an ID, you can create one here: https://helpx.adobe.com/se/manage-account/using/create-update-adobe-id.html

If the link you downloaded does not open automatically, choose to open it with the program or app. The e-book is downloaded and placed on your bookshelf.  There is information on the e-book cover that tells you how long it can be used. When the loan period has expired, the e-book is still visible, but cannot be opened. You can go into Primo and download it again.

You only need to use Adobe ID to authorize the program or app the first time you want to download an e-book with DRM protection - once it's done, the authorization remains.

EBSCO eBooks and Ebook Central

Please note, if the e-book is on EBSCO eBooks or Ebook Central, it is under DRM protection. You need to create an account on the site before you can start downloading. This is done by registering an email address and a password. You cannot use your existing SLU credentials to log in.