Because there are many e-reader devices and applications available for e-reading, we've created a general list of software you'll need. Whether you are interested reading Kindle books, Nook books, or iBooks, scroll through our list for links and help. Although you may have this software installed on your personal computer or handheld device, you will want to make sure you have the most current version of the software installed.
Adobe Digital Editions is necessary for downloading e-books available from eBrary and NetLibrary. In addition, it serves as a management console for any e-books you may have purchased with a compatible device. You can also use Adobe Digital Editions to tranfer e-books from the library to a compatible device. Currently, the Amazon Kindle is not supported by Adobe Digital Editions.
Before getting started with Adobe Digital Editions, you must create an Adobe ID.
If you plan on transferring e-book files to an iPod, iPhone, or iPad, you will want to make sure you have the latest version of iTunes installed on your computer. Remember, you will need your Apple ID to authenticate.
Whether you have a PC or Mac, check out an instructional video from Apple showing you how to install iTunes.
Did you know you don't have to have a Kindle to read Kindle Books? You can download the Kindle app to your computer, iPhone, BlackBerry, iPad, Android, and Windows Phone. All you need is an Amazon account (it's free to setup) to get started!
Did you know you don't necessarily need a Barnes & Noble Nook to read Nook books? You can download a Nook app to your computer, iPad, iPhone, or Android. All you need is a Barnes & Noble account (it's free to setp) to get started.
There is a variety of e-reader apps available for the iPad. Although you can purchase e-books through the iTunes store and read them on your iPad using the iBooks app, check out some other apps to expand your reading experience:
If you're unsure of what e-book format is compatible with your personal e-reader, or if you want to know what devices you can use to read a particular file format, check out the Comparison of E-Book Formats from Wikipedia that details all formats available and covers virtually all devices. Wikipedia is updated frequently, so check back often!
Digital Rights Management (DRM) is a layer of access control set forth by publishers and e-book sellers to ensure that the user the who purchases the e-book is the only one that can access it. Although there are ways to lend e-books and to obtain lended e-books, DRM preserves the copyright. If you'd like to learn more how and why it's used, check out DRM resources from Wikipedia.
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