How To Download Library Books

How To Download Library Books

All ebooks can be read online from a web browser. Most ebook databases allow downloading via compatible software, for reading on tablets, ebook readers,  and smart phones. A few library ebook databases only download book chapters, in PDF format. You may be told that some ebooks ares not downloadable, or that they are already in use.

Download direct to tablets or  phones,  or download to a PC/laptop  first,  then transfer ebook files.

To download ebooks you must install Adobe Digital Editions or compatible alternative software on your computer/ device.   You must create an Adobe Digital Editions compatible account, and log in when prompted during installation. (Common compatible ebook reader apps are listed below.)

  1. Find see (“Individual ebook databases” listed below.)  -   You must create a personal account and login,  on each ebook database,  to download ebooks.Ebooks to download using your web browser, via the search box on the library webpage.
  2. Click the “Download” button for a choosen ebook,  and  follow download instructions.  You will be told the loan period for the    book.  The ebook may open automatically, and be listed in your compatible ebook reader software,  or you may have to locate and  click on the file to open it.  Click the “Download” button for a choosen ebook,  and  follow download instructions.  You will be told the loan period for the    book.  The ebook may open automatically, and be listed in your compatible ebook reader software,  or you may have to locate and click on the file to open it
  3. Open and read ebooks.  You can now read your downloaded ebooks with your Ebook reader    software/app.  Ebook files will stop working on their due date, usually 7 days after downloading.
  4. If you wish to transfer eBook file(s)  from a PC to a mobile device.   Transfer ebook computer files by usb cable or by wireless  methods you choose, configuring your mobile device as needed.  - In Windows, files are stored in the folder “Documents\My Digital Editions\”). 
    • With your devise connected to your pc,  Adobe Digital Editions “Library view”  should show connected ebook readers listed in the devise list.  You can drag ebooks listed to your listed mobile ebook reader. 
    • Before you can read transferred  ebooks on a mobile device you must install an Adobe Digital Editions compatible ebook reader app from your app store.  This app must be registered with the same Adobe account name and password used when you downloaded the books to your PC.  (Common compatible ebook reader apps are listed below.)

Individual Ebook Databases


Adobe Digital Editions Compatible Ebook Readers.

  • Adobe Digital Editions 

  • Aldiko eBook reader for Android - (free from Google Play App store)

  • Bluefire eBook reader for Apple - (free from Apple App store)

  • Calibre - Popular software for managing and downloading ebooks in different  formats. 

Issues of Note: Blackberry Playbook tablets do not appear to have an Adobe Digital Editions compatible ebook reader app. Some people have used Calibre software to move ebooks to Blackberry Playbook tablets. - Some Samsung tablets and phones are not recognized on Adobe Digital Editions “device list”.

Contact us

Patrick Power Library
Mailing address:
Saint Mary's University
923 Robie Street
Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H 3C3

Social media