How Do eBooks Work?

1. Select any of over 10,000 eBooks available to purchase on our site.
2. Confirm the following information:
   1. Your computer meets the meets the minimum system requirements.
   2. You are using a high-speed Internet connection.
   3. Your computer has the required free reader software: Adobe Digital Edition, Adobe Reader 7.1 (this will give you access to read out loud feature), or VitalSource Bookshelf. If you do not have the required software as stated with your eBook, you can download it here:

      » Download Adobe Digital Edition
      » Download Adobe Reader 7.1
          (this will give you access to Read Out Loud feature)
      » Download VitalSource Bookshelf eBook Reader

3. Once you confirm the requirements, simply add the eBook to your shopping cart and proceed through normal checkout.
4. Wait 15 to 30 minutes for an email confirmation with a link to download your eBook.
5. Download your eBook onto the computer you intend to use it on. Please allow 10 to 15 minutes for your eBook to download. You are now ready to begin using it!

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Your Computer
Minimum System Requirements for eBooks and Free Reader Software

Personal (non-shared, non-lab) Computer with:

• Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Mac OS X 10.3 or above
• At least 256 MB RAM, a 600 mHz processor, and 110 MB of hard drive space
• 1024x768 screen resolution or larger

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Your Connection
Due to the size of eBooks, a high-speed internet connection (cable modem, DSL, LAN) is required for download stability and speed. Your connection can be wired or wireless.

Being online is not required for reading an eBook after successfully downloading it. You must only be connected to the Internet during the download process.

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eBook FAQs

What are eBooks?

eBooks are digital, downloadable versions of print textbooks. All content of the book should be the same. eBooks are a great way to access the same information as regular textbooks while saving money, saving paper and thereby saving the environment.

Why should I buy eBooks vs. a physical textbook?

• Instant access to your book
• Reduced price over physical text
• No paper consumed/no waste produced

How long do eBooks last? Do they expire?

eBooks (digital textbooks) are valid and readable on your computer for a minimum of 12 months (expiration rules may vary by publisher) after your initial activation (activation, not download).

Can I print from my eBooks?

Yes. Printing rules vary by publisher. Most eBooks have no limitations regarding printing capability, but some allow only up to 100 pages per week.

Can I share my eBooks?

eBooks are designed as one-time downloads to a single computer owned by one user. Encoded Digital Rights Management does not allow eBooks to be shared between multiple users.

Can I make a backup copy of my eBook in case my computer crashes?

Yes, not only can you, you absolutely should. Since eBooks are one-time downloads to a single computer, creating an archived backup and burning it to removable media such as CD, DVD, or external drive is your responsibility. You may do so and reinstall the eBook on the same computer to which you originally downloaded the digital content in order to restore it.

• If your eBook uses Adobe Digital Editions, consult the Adobe Digital Editions Help in the drop down bar.
• If your eBook uses VitalSource Bookshelf, call toll free at 800-610-5382 or email support@vitalsource.com.

Can I return an eBook?

We're sorry, eBooks are not refundable.

What if I need help?

Call us toll free at 877-292-6442 or by email at eBooks@textbooks.com