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Ebooks

Tools & Tips

What's the Difference Between EPUB and PDF?

  • EPUB is a good file format to use when viewing ebooks on smaller devices, such as Kindles and mobile phones, as the display size will adapt to fit your reader.
    EPUB is often more compatible with Apple products. We recommend using a browser such as Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, or Internet Explorer 10. 
  • PDF is the better choice when viewing an eBook that involves complex graphics like charts, illustrations and photos.
    PDF format often offers stricter formatting and is less interactive. 

To make your user experience easier, many of the digital resource collections have additional eBook features available. These tools will usually appear on the top or side menu of an eBook.

Available tools will differ depending on which collection you are viewing. Here are some commonly included features:

  • Citations: Most eBooks (with the exception of those found in Safari) will have APA, MLA, and Chicago formatted citations readily available in order to make referencing simple.
  • Permanent links: Clicking the Permalink icon will create a permanent URL so you can easily return to the item.
  • Results folders: When viewing an eBook in eBook Central, you can save items to your bookshelf using your eBook Central account. When viewing an eBook in an EBSCO collection, you can save items to a folder using your EBSCO account.
  • Other functions such as printing, highlighting, adding notes, bookmarking, zooming and emailing are also available.