Borrowing and sharing of eBooks is a complicated area which is still to be fully ironed out as new technologies develop.
How to borrow eBooks
Public libraries are gradually introducing eBook loans, currently around half of local library authorities provide a service.
The book you download is time limited, as with standard borrowing, but you are usually given the option to extend the loan period, renew or borrow again. Normally you will need to visit your local library's website where you can log in using your library card number.
If your library doesn't offer ebooks you can often join a different library in another authority if you are able to travel there. Ask the librarian for help with accessing the service, once you are signed up you can usually get eBooks directly from your computer at home.
How to read a borrowed eBook
You can read eBooks using your PC or laptop. You should also be able to transfer eBooks to your eBook reader or smartphone if you have one. Unfortunately in the UK, no libraries currently offer the option to borrow eBooks to read on the Amazon Kindle eBook reader.
You may need to download software to your computer to allow you to access eBooks. Usually this is software such as Adobe Digital Editions that allows the library to maintain control of the book and prevent misuse, such as piracy. The librarians will be able to give you advice on this.
Public libraries usually provide eBooks by subscribing to an eBooks service, each of these services work in a slightly different way. The main providers you can expect to come across are:
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Overdrive - the most popular
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Askews
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Public Library Online
Accessibility
One thing that is less clear at the moment is whether these services are fully accessible to people with sight loss. Although the major providers ought to be accessible using screen readers, screen magnifiers and other forms of access technology, there is little firm information provided. Find out more about making computers accessible.
A recent RNIB survey indicated that staff assistance was essential for most people at the start, even for experienced computer users. The general feedback was that it would have been extremely difficult for most people to manage on their own, however library staff were found to be helpful and supportive.
We would be interested to hear your experiences, you can email us at ebooks@rnib.org.uk