What's a digital book and how is it different from an ebook?

You may have used ebooks from the library before. Here's a quick description of the differences between an ebook and a digital book.Record view of a digital book that shows available online, "Digital Availability" and "Digital Textbook"

Digital Books

Digital books are created by your library from a physical book that we own. The library scans the book into PDF files, and makes the PDF copy available to view from OneSearch in the digital viewer. Digital books are not available for downloading or printing. Most digital books are textbooks required for a class. Access to a digital book is usually limited to four hours at a time, but digital books may be renewed for longer if copies are available. The number of digital copies determines how many people can view a digital book at one time.

Learn more about digital books from the Los Rios Libraries, including details on how to access, read online, and limitations.

Ebooks

Ebook record that shows available online and "View Online" "Available from: EBSCO"Ebooks are purchased from vendors, who provide electronic access to a book. Ebooks are usually viewed through a specific database provided by the vendor/publisher. You may browse the ebook options from the databases page or search for an ebook by title or topic through OneSearch. The options for accessing and using ebooks are decided by the vendor license that the library buys or subscribes to. This controls things such as how many people may use a book at one time, how many pages may be printed or downloaded, etc.

Learn more about ebooks.

Similarities

Both digital books and ebooks:

  • Can be accessed by searching in OneSearch
  • Require your Los Rios Login (w# and password) to read the full text of the book
  • Can be read online in your browser
  • Look the same in search results in OneSearch. You will likely not know it is an ebook vs a digital book until you click on the title for more information or go to the book itself

Search results in OneSearch where both the digital book and ebook just show "Available Online"

Last Updated: Jun 12, 2024     Views: 8437

Related Topics/Answers

Submit a Question

Your Info
  • During semester: We normally respond within 24 hours - Monday through Friday, excluding District Holidays - see Library Hours
    • Response times will be longer during semester breaks. 
  • This service is for emailing the Library
    • Use this service for answers to questions about library policies or services, get help from a librarian to find library resources or suggest research strategies for your assignments. 
    • If you have questions for the Bookstore please see their Bookstore FAQ and Contact information on their website. 
    • If you have questions for your instructor please see the Faculty and Staff Directory
  • This service is intended for enrolled students, faculty and staff. Questions from non-affiliated users will only be answered if their question concerns resources unique to the ARC library.
Your Question
Fields marked with * are required.

Chat