Skip to Main Content

eBooks at UTAS Library

FAQs for students

Why doesn't the library have my text electronically?

Sometimes eTextbooks are unavailable for libraries to purchase due to licensing. eTextbooks are sold under different kinds of licenses:

  • Individual licenses - only allow a specific person to purchase and use the eText.
  • Institutional licenses - allow various people to access the eText.

The library can only buy eTexts released under an Institutional license. Unfortunately, not all publishers release their eTexts under this type of license.


What does it mean if an eTextbook is unavailable?

In these instances, the library will purchase print texts. Required texts will be placed in the Reserve section of the library. These texts have a restricted loan period of 7 days.


Can ProQuest Ebook Central eBooks read aloud?

Yes! ProQuest Ebook Central supports text-to-speech tools when using Text Only Mode. To activate this feature:

  1. Select Profile from the settings menu.
  2. Choose Enable Text Only Mode.
  3. Agree to the privacy and terms of service by checking the box.
  4. Click Save Changes.
  5. Select Continue.

Once you've completed these steps, you will see a text-only version of the e-book designed to work with text-to-speech tools.

Note: This feature is available on laptops and desktops but not supported on tablets or phones. You will need text-to-speech software (such as Read and Write) or a browser extension installed.

Suggest an eBook

Found a great book that you think would be perfect for our collection?

Fill in a Suggestion for Purchase form. 

Your suggestion will be forwarded on to the Liaison Librarian overseeing that subject area who will review the request. 

Troubleshooting