The quick answer is that VDOT employees can use any Internet-connected device to view EBSCO eBooks, but if you want to download to a special eBook reader or use with a special mobile app here's EBSCO's comparatiblity list. If your device is not always connected to the Internet when you want to view an EBSCO eBook (for example you are going on a trip and want to load an eBook to a reader), you can adjust your strategy.
EBSCO eBooks are online versions of print books the library has licensed via annual subscription from EBSCO. But EBSCO eBooks are a different from some of the library's other Ebook platforms (including subscriptions like Skillsoft Books, ASCE Library or ASTM Compass). Those systems have built-in eBook viewing capabilities. So when you click on an eBook the contents of the book appear immediately in your browser window, regardless of what connected device you are using.
In some cases, the eBook you are using is in the familiar PDF format (which loads in your browser but could in theory also be saved to a portable device). In other cases the eBook content displays as HTML...in essence the eBook is displayed as Web page content when you request it on your device screen
Such "browser-based" platforms are convenient because you don't need to download special eBook reading software or special hardware, and it does not matter if the device is an ipad, a smartphone or a desktop computer. Users simply search, click and immediately start reading.
As long as you have an active Internet connection from the device, you can read such eBooks on those systems, including access from non-VDOT devices (like a personal phone or a home computer) when you use your Virtual Library Card for authentication.
But back to EBSCO eBooks and portable devices. With EBSCO eBooks you have three options for viewing content, depending on what device(s) you want to use and how you hope to use the eBook.
Option 1: View an eBook in the browser of your device
Simply search for a book, click on the book you want and immediately start reading in your device's browser widow. As long as you have an Internet connection on your device this is a great option! But when you lose access to the Internet you will lose access to the eBook.
Option 2: Download an eBook to a computer and move to your portable device
This option is helpful if you want to have a digital copy of the book that resides on your portal device (for up to 365 days). In this option, you can download a digital copy (PDF or EPUB formats) of the EBSCO eBook to your VDOT computer (or your home computer using the Virtual Library Card) for viewing with the Adobe Digital Editions software. For this you will also need a free Adobe ID (which you affiliate with Adobe Digital Editions):
Step 1: If you select this option, you will actually be "checking out" the eBook and it will be loaded to your computer for you to access for up to 365 days.
Step 2: This involves plugging your device into your computer and moving the eBook from your computer to your device. Please follow these instructions from EBSCO
Option 3: Download eBooks directly to your portable device
If you have a portable device and a Library Card, why not bypass the computer discussed in Option 2 and download the eBook directly to your device? Note that you will need an Adobe ID and Adobe Digital Editions loaded onto the device.
When you do this we recommend you download out the eBook in EPUB format (if that option is available) instead of PDF for the best viewing experience.
Ken Winter
VDOT Research Library
Ken.Winter@VDOT.virginia.gov
434-962-8979
