Just a reminder about our patron-driven request eBooks; they can be read online but not downloaded.
We recently updated our profile to exclude a lot of titles that had previously been accessible and, as a result, it is no longer clear which are requestible titles. There is a download button present but when trying to download the eBook the message “You cannot download this book” appears. When this happens, it means that it is a patron-driven title and can only be read online. After 5 minutes reading, you will see the message “Your time browsing this book has elapsed”. If you would like the Library to purchase a copy of this e-book, please click “Yes (place a request)”. At that point, if you request access, we will purchase the eBook and it will subsequently become downloadable.
Records have been added to the Catalogue for these patron-driven titles. However, the records look like our normal purchased titles; there is no indication that they are patron-driven titles (and that they are not downloadable). Please be aware of this if you have users reporting that they can’t download an eBook on EBL.
Deirdre
1. How long does it take for a "patron-driven title" to become available after a client places a request?
2. The patron-driven-request process seems to be confusing for EBL eBook readers. Is there any chance the setup can become more "customer focused" instead of "customer mystifying"? Eg an explanation to the reader at the outset of exactly what will happen (you can read for 5 mins, then must place a request and full access will be available in x hours).
John
This issue has been resolved – patron-driven titles should now be downloadable and immediately accessible (provided they are within our purchase limits).
If they are outside our limits the user will get a message that the loan is "awaiting approval" and will be notified when it becomes available.
Deirdre