We are currently testing our service prior to offering it to all customers. Please try it out and let us have any comments by email to library.ebooks@southampton.gov.uk
At present it is free to download eBooks, but it looks likely a charging model will be introduced in the New Year.
eBooks are electronic versions of the printed book. We are now offering you the opportunity to download eBooks to your computer, eBook reader or mobile device.
Some key features are:
• borrow up to four eBooks for between 1 - 21 days
• no overdues or fines, as loans expire after three weeks
• a selection of fiction and non-fiction titles
• available in EPUB and PDF formats
Downloading eBooks - Getting started
What will I need to get started?
• A current library card - No card? Join the library
• Internet access
• A computer that meets the system requirements for the type(s) of materials you wish to download
• A compatible device - most are compatible including iphone, ipad, ipod and android devices except Kindle (restriction placed on Kindle by Amazon). Check if your device is compatible
• Adobe Digital Editions Software - check if your computer meets the specification
Step by step guide
Step 1 - First you need to Download and install Adobe Digital Editions
Step 2 - Activate the software (you only have to do this once)
You can activate Adobe Digital Editions anonymously or by using an Adobe ID. If you don't have an Adobe ID you can only read eBooks on a single computer. Activating using the ID allows you to download eBooks on multiple computers and transfer them to supported eBooks and mobile devices
Step 3 Finding an eBook
Use the library eBook catalogue or login into the eBooks website to search and browse the collection. You will need your library card and PIN. If you have a Smartcities card/bus pass use the account number which starts with a 9. Need a PIN reminder? Click here
Once you have access follow the on screen instructions to download a title to your basket
Step 4 - Instructions for downloading eBooks to mobile devices
Once you have found a title(s) go to the 'instructions for downloading eBooks to the following devices' section below and click on the link for device you would like to download to. A set of instructions should be displayed.
For more help and information visit our FAQs section
Southampton City Council
