eBook Central

ProQuest eBook Central logo

What is eBook Central?

ProQuest eBook Central is an eBook platform that offers access to thousands of recent titles across all disciplines. Cowles Library provides access to eBook Central titles with a demand-driven model; that is, the eBook is available in our catalog, but the Library does not pay for it until someone actually uses it. Three uses trigger an automatic purchase, at which point Drake University owns the eBook.

Finding eBook Central eBooks

You can search for eBook Central eBooks in SuperSearch. When you’ve found a title you want to explore, select the “eBook Central” link.

You’ll be prompted to log in with your Drake ID and password (screenshot). A Book Details page will appear, which provides a summary, table of contents, and other publication details. From this page, you can view the e-book online or download it to your computer or mobile device.

You can also search the eBook Central interface directly. ProQuest has provided an online guide to searching their platform.

Viewing eBook Central eBooks

To view the book, select Read Online below the cover image (screenshot).

The Online Reader will load in your browser. The Reader allows you to page through the book, jump to a specific page, create bookmarks and annotations, search within the book’s text, and several other tools.

Consult ProQuest’s guide for the latest information about Online Reader tools and browser support.

Downloading eBook Central eBooks

ProQuest’s guide to downloading has the latest information on how to download in eBook Central, which e-reader apps are supported, and how to find out if there are download restrictions on a particular title.

Most titles can be downloaded for between 1 and 7 days. There are also chapter downloads if you don’t need the entire book..

Questions?

Select the help icon in the top right of any eBook Central page to access the online user guide, or consult the eBook Central Support Center for answers to common questions and issues.

Of course, you can always reach out to a librarian and we’ll be happy to answer your question or direct you to the appropriate support.