Digital Course Materials--FAQs
Digital course materials are an increasingly popular alternative to traditional printed textbooks and other printed course materials. These digital materials can be purchased through the Illini Union Bookstore (IUB) website just as printed textbooks and printed course materials are purchased.
What is an eBook? What is an ePacket?
An eBook is a digital version of your textbook that can be read on your computer or favorite handheld device (laptops, tablets, and smartphones). An ePacket is a digital version for a printed course packet which is a custom publication developed by instructors (also viewable on a computer or handheld device).
What is an access code for digital content
An access code is a unique code you enter to gain access to digital course content on a designated website. Course content may include supplemental learning materials such as chapter reviews, study aids, labs, quizzes and assignments. IUB offers standalone access codes for purchase, and access codes may also be bundled with print materials.
Are there advantages to using eBooks and other digital content?
eBooks and digital content are typically less expensive than traditional printed textbooks and many offer interactive features such as study guides, practice tests, and embedded audio and video for enhanced learning. Digital content can be used on multiple devices (laptops, tablets, and smartphones) so it is great for convenience and mobility. For most students, digital content provides more flexibility, accessibility, and can offer a more engaging educational experience.
Are there any considerations when using eBooks and other digital course content?
eBooks and digital content offer convenient, on-the-go access and are available for use long after the semester ends. However, access is often provided for a specific period of time (commonly 180 days), so be sure to review the access timeframe before purchasing.
Unlike printed textbooks, digital materials generally do not have a resale option at the end of the semester. In addition, many publishers limit the amount of content that can be printed. If you prefer to highlight, annotate or study from a physical book, a print format maybe a better fit for your learning style.
If I purchase an eBook, do I get access to it immediately?
Our primary partner for eBooks is VitalSource which works with our Course Materials department staff to ensure that students are purchasing the right digital materials for their classes.
After you order a Vital Source eBook or ePacket, you will receive an email (within an hour of placing the order) from Vital Source containing information you'll need to gain access to your digital content. The message can be filtered as spam, so if you do not receive an email soon afterwards, be sure to check your junk or spam folder. From there, any time you'd like to access the materials you can simply navigate back to uofibookstore.vitalsource.com and log in. If you have any eBook or ePacket questions, just email us at iubtextorders@Illinois.edu and we will be happy to assist you with your purchase.
What about immediate access to other digital content?
Some digital materials are available in physical form including cards with access codes which need to be scratched off and redeemed by the student on a publisher's website. This is dependent on the items that the student selects. These items might need to be picked up or shipped directly to the student after the order has been processed.
Can I return my eBook or access code?
Yes. Non-activated eBooks are generally eligible for a refund. Once an eBook has been activated, it can no longer be returned or refunded. Access codes are also non-refundable after they have been redeemed on the publisher's website or once the protective covering has been removed from the code card. To ensure eligibility for a refund, please keep access codes and eBooks inactivated until you are certain they are needed for your course.Can I share my eBook or digital content?
eBooks and digital course materials are licensed for use by a single user and are often provided for a limited access period. Many publishers use Digital Rights Management (DRM) technology and other access controls that restrict sharing and help protect copyrighted content. As a result, eBooks and digital content are generally intended for individual use and cannot be shared with others.
Can I print my eBook or digital content?
Printing options vary by product. Some eBooks and digital materials allow you to print certain pages, while others have little or no printing available. Information about printing options is usually included in the product details or access information. If you prefer to study from printed materials, be sure to review these details before purchasing.
Do I need to select shipping options with eBooks or digital content?
Our website requires you to select a shipping or pick up option for anything you purchase. If you purchase an eBook or digital content and this is the only item on your order, we can scan and email your code to you and remove your shipping charge at that time. If you have an eBook or digital content with other printed materials, you will need to choose either the shipping option to your specified address or the pickup at the bookstore option. If you purchase an eBook from VitalSource and you automatically receive the access code, we will also remove your shipping charge at the time your order is processed.