San Diego Public Library's eBook Collection

The San Diego Public Library offers patrons and users eBooks from NetLibrary. This page provides an introduction on how to access and use eBooks.

Access to NetLibrary eBooks

You can access NetLibrary eBooks from any Internet-connected computer using your Library card number and PIN.

To create a new account with NetLibrary, users should visit the Library's Research Databases' page, and select NetLibrary. You will find it listed under "Books & Reading" and also "by title under N."

NetLibrary Demo

If you are new to eBooks, please take a minute to view theNetLibrary demo. This seven minute, self-guided tour covers NetLibrary basics from creating an account to checking out an eBook.

Creating a NetLibrary Account

NetLibrary eBooks accounts are free for San Diego Public Library patrons. The first time you wish to check out an eBook, NetLibrary will ask you to create an account.

How to Find eBooks

• You can find eBook titles by searching the Library Catalog for eBooks (see below). You may also come across eBooks in your normal searches for other library materials. Either way, you will be able to view and, in some cases, download an eBook.

• You can find eBooks on NetLibrary by using the Basic Search option. Or, you can use the Advanced Search option to construct a more complex search.

How to Use Your NetLibrary Search Results

Once you retrieve a list of Search Results from NetLibrary, you can immediately read a full-text eBook title. You can also view additional information about an eBook title by selecting the Show Details' link.

What if All Copies are Being Read or are Checked Out?

If you see the message "All copies are in use," it means that other users are viewing all the full-text eBook copies of the title that we own. You can view the Table of Contents for the full-text eBook title, and you can choose to be notified by email when a copy of the title becomes available.

Checkout Period for eBooks

Each title may have a special checkout time limit, which will be displayed for you. The majority of eBooks that may be checked out will have a 1 week checkout, though some items may have a different checkout period. See the details on each eBook for the checkout time limit.

Downloading eBooks

Downloading eBooks to read them offline is easy to do. Follow the instructions online for downloading, or consult the NetLibrary HELP link about downloading eBooks.

Need help with NetLibrary?

For specialized help in using NetLibrary, please access the NetLibrary Help instructions for using the service and the eBooks. Once you are connected to NetLibrary, just look for the HELP link.

If you need further help, please contact Library staff at any library location or online by using the Ask the Library service.