If you've never used an eBook before it may sound like a daunting prospect. Don't worry! It's usually quite straightforward once you know what's what.
How do I read an eBook?
To read an eBook you must use either:
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An eBook reader. This is a device that is designed especially for reading eBooks. Kindle and Kobo are types of eBook readers.
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An eBook app. This is a programme that runs on a computer, tablet or smartphone. The makers of eBook readers also make eBook apps, which include iBooks (made by Apple) and Adobe Digital Editions.
There are three things you need to be able to do with an eBook reader or app:
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Add books to it
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Browse the books on it and choose one to open
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Read a book
Most eBook readers and apps have additional facilities like dictionaries, search facilities, annotation facilities and links to social media sites.
Which eBook reader or app is best for me?
Everyone wants something different from their eBook reader or app. You might want one that lets you change font sizes and background colours, or maybe you'd prefer one that will read books out to you. Maybe you want one that does both!
The way you choose to read eBooks will depend on what, how and where you want to read, and what suits you in terms of sight loss, dexterity and life style.
Read our guide to accessibility of eBooks to get an overview of the features available, with links to more details on specific eBook readers and apps. Don't forget that many high street book, electrical and department stores sell eBook readers, so ask a member of staff for a demonstration. eBook apps are almost always free, so you can download one and try it out to see if it suits you.
Where can I get eBooks from?
Once you've got an eBook reader or eBook app you can go online to get some eBooks. You can do this with the eBook reader or app, or with another device that connects to the Internet, like a computer or smartphone.
All eBook readers and apps work in a similar way: connect to the relevant book store, browse and buy (or get for free - many classic books don't cost a penny), wait a few seconds for the book to download, and start reading! You can get eBooks from lots of places, read more on our pages about buying eBooks and borrowing eBooks.
Accessibility
All eBook readers and apps let you enlarge the text of a book. Some let you listen to the book as text-to-speech, and a few allow you to read with a braille display. Not all eBook readers have the same accessibility options, so make sure the one you buy lets you read the way you want to!
Read our guide to the accessibility of eBooks to get an idea of what's what. You could also visit a high street book, electrical or department store to try eBooks.
File formats
There are a number of different formats for eBooks. No eBook reader supports all formats, so you have to match the reader you want to use with the eBook formats that are available for it. Many eBooks are 'protected' to restrict your use of them and combat piracy. Protection stops you lending eBooks to other people, and may also limit the eBook readers you can read it on.
Help with technology
If you're a bit green when it comes to technology, don't fret. Our technology section has some useful beginner's guides and a glossary of terms to get you started. We also have a Technology Support Squad - a team of UK-wide volunteers who can visit you to help you understand your gadgets and gizmos.
Where can I find out more?
Read more about where to try eBooks, buy eBooks and borrow eBooks. You can also find information about the accessibility of eBooks and comparisons of eBook readers.
If you're online, search on the name of an ebook reader or app and you'll be inundated with information! Or if you have a specific question, you can email ebooks@rnib.org.uk.