What are eBooks?
Consider this your crash course in eBooks.
Class is in session!
Today we will cover:
What is an eBook?
Simply put, an eBook is an electronic book.
eBooks cannot be edited and are compatible with numerous devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and e-readers.
An ebook can consist of electronic text or also include audio, video, or hyperlinks.
Who are eBooks for?
The answer might surprise you…
eBooks are for readers of all ages!
Why should you try eBooks?
We’re so glad you asked!
Ease of Use
eBooks can be read anytime, anywhere. You can carry an entire library in your pocket!
Since your books are saved on a smart device or eReader, they are lightweight and easy to carry. You don’t have to carry stacks of books anymore, so skip your workout today. You deserve it.
Most devices automatically bookmark where you left off. You can even start your eBook on one device and continue on another without losing your place.
Features
Just like Google, eBooks are searchable. Enter keywords, a character name, or a phrase, and the eBook will return a list of pages for you to browse. In addition, most devices come with a built-in dictionary and thesaurus.
Readers can take notes, highlight passages, bookmark pages, and more without marking up a physical copy of the book. Some authors even include hyperlinks giving you access to additional information!
eBooks come with accessibility features for every type of reader. Check out the settings to adjust the font size, screen brightness, and backlighting.
Readers who are visually impaired or readers with learning difficulties can benefit from the customizable settings and interactive features.
Savings
Save space! Carry thousands of books on your digital device at once.
Save money! Borrowing books from the library gives you access to over 761,000 eBooks for free with your library card.
Save the environment! Less paper means more trees. Everybody loves more trees.
Where do I find eBooks?
Guess what? You have options!
Libby
Libby is available for all Parkland Community Library patrons with an active library card.
No monthly borrowing limits. Patrons can check out up to 8 books at once. Place up to 8 holds on your account at one time.
NOTE: Libby will be replacing the OverDrive app on May 1, 2023. Click here to learn more.
Hoopla
Hoopla is only available to Parkland School District residents and to paying nonresidents with an active Parkland Community Library Card.
Limit 5 instant borrows per month. No wait times.
Limit 5 Flex borrows at one time. Find new and popular books you can borrow or place a hold. Flex borrows are separate from your instant borrows.
EBSCO
EBSCO eBooks are available to all Parkland Community Library patrons with an active library card.
Select from over 16,000 books from the world’s leading publishers across all major subject areas.
Perform full-text searches of a single eBook, search thousands of volumes simultaneously, browse topic categories, or read eBooks directly online.
No borrowing limits or restrictions.
How do I check out an eBook?
Access your free eBooks in 5 steps or less.
Libby
Step 1: Search the title of the book
Step 2: Tap the eBook cover art
Step 3: Tap Borrow (the book is available) or Place a Hold (the book has a waitlist)
Step 4: Tap Go to Shelf
Step 5: Select if you would like to read the eBook on your current device or send a copy to your Kindle for download
Hoopla
Step 1: Search the title of the book
Step 2. Tap the eBook cover art
Step 3: Tap Borrow (instant and Flex titles) or tap Hold (Flex titles only)
Step 4: Tap Read
EBSCO
Step 1: Search the title of the book
Step 2: Click on the eBook title
Step 3: Click Full Download or PDF Full Text for a PDF version of the book
With over 761,000 eBooks to choose from, Parkland Community Library has a book for every reader. Check out the links below to access our digital collection for free with your library card!
Ready to download an eBook?
Grab your library and try one of Parkland Community Library’s free sources for eBooks!
PCL Learning Center
Welcome to the PCL Learning Center! Your library card grants you access to many online learning resources! Our staff has compiled an age-based educational list to help you and your family prepare for school and thrive throughout the school year and semesters. Whether you are preparing a little one to start school, priming a child…
Language Tools
Parkland Community Library is happy to offer free language tools for both native speakers and those interested in learning a new language. Our online databases and apps are perfect for language research and studying, with no ads. Our language tools are crafted to help users improve their communication skills, enrich their vocabulary, and gain a…
For Fans of Dungeons & Dragons
Dungeons & Dragons has maintained a lasting following over the years for its creativity, engaging gameplay, social interaction, friendship-building, and storytelling within a rich, lore-filled universe. Players form guilds to strategize, solve puzzles, and immerse themselves in a vast world of magical creatures and treasures. This role-playing game (RPG) features a customizable tabletop board that…