General
What is an eBook?
An eBook, short for electronic book, is a book-length publication in digital form with text, images or both. Most eBooks are formatted specifically to be read on dedicated e-readers, however many other electronic devices, including computers and mobile phones, can also be used to read eBooks with the appropriate software.
What eBook file formats can I access from the Catalog of U.S. Government Publications?
eBooks titles are available in EPUB and, MOBI formats. In addition, many titles are also available in PDF digital format. For more information about each of these file type you can download eBook Formats and Free Software Options.
Do I need a dedicated eBook reading device (like a Nook or a Kindle) to read an eBook?
No, you can read eBooks on your dedicated eBook reading device as well as on your PC, Mac, tablet, iOS mobile device, or Android device using eBook reading software. For more information about eBooks and access to free eBook reading software, you can download eBook Formats and Free Software Options.
What eBook file formats can I access from the Catalog of U.S. Government Publications?
eBooks titles are available in EPUB and, MOBI formats. In addition, many titles are also available in PDF format.
Finding and Downloading eBooks
How do I search the CGP for eBooks?
You can search the CGP for eBook titles from the FDLP.gov eBooks page, simply enter your search terms in the eBook Search box and click Go! For additional assistance locating Federal government eBook titles you can download this walkthrough document.
How do I browse available eBooks titles in the CGP?
You can browse all eBook titles available on the on the CGP by clicking the Browse all eBook Records link on the FDLP.gov eBooks page, or by going directly to the CGP.
How do I download an eBook?
You can download eBook titles in any of the available eBook file formats from a PURL established for the title. There are two ways you can access a PURL:
- From the catalog record for an eBook title you can click on the link in the Internet Access field.
- When browsing or searching the CGP you can click on the link in the Internet Access field.
The PURL contains a file directory, with a folder for each file format that is available for a specific eBook title. Click on the folder for the file format you would like to download; this will open the folder and provide a link to the eBook title in that format. If prompted, choose to save the file.
I attempted to download an eBook in EPUB format, but the file downloaded in ZIP format, what do I do?
The downloaders for some internet browsers automatically save EPUB files as ZIP files. If this happens to you, simply rename the file changing the extension from ".zip" to ".epub"
Reading Your eBooks
Do I need to download an eBook to my computer in order to read it?
Yes, in order to read an eBook file you will need to download it to your computer. Once the file has downloaded you can open it on your computer using eBook reading software.
What software can I use to read an eBook on my computer?
For information about some of the free eBook reading software options available for your computer, you can download eBook Formats and Free Software Options.
What applications can I download to read eBooks on my mobile device?
For information about some free eBook reading applications for your tablet or handheld mobile device, you can download eBook Formats and Free Software Options.
How do I transfer eBook files to my dedicated eBook reading device?
To read your eBook on an eBook reading device, you must first download your eBook to a computer. Once you have downloaded the eBook, you will need to manually copy the downloaded file to your device. For additional assistance transferring files to your specific device, reference the manufacturer support materials for your device.