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 are unable to be edited and are adaptable to numerous devices including smartphones, tablets, computers, and 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 move to another without losing your page.
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 for Parkland School District and Northwestern residents 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!
Young Critics Book Club
2024 Monthly, on the third Thursday Young Critics Book Club is a monthly book discussion for ages 8-12. We will share ideas for other great reads while enjoying fun activities and snacks. Join us anyway if you did not finish the book. A parent or guardian must be present for this event. January: “Critic’s Choice.”Read…
Senior Book Club
2024 Reading List Senior Book Club meets at 3pm on the second Tuesday of the month at Luther Crest in Allentown. All are welcome. Non-residents may participate with their own copy of the book. Drop-in Event *The reading list is subject to change. PCL Event Calendar January When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi, 2016…
PCL Book Club Reading List
2024 Reading List PCL’s book club for adults meets to discuss our latest book pick at 7pm on the third Tuesday of the month. Join us each month for a lively book discussion. New members are welcome! Non-residents may participate with their own copy of the book. Be sure to RSVP on our events calendar.…