Maximum number of users per licence
Licence types available on the major platforms owned by the Library
The types of e-book licences available to the Library are entirely dependent on what licence models our e-book suppliers can offer.
The following are the different e-book licences that the Library may purchase (please bear in mind that these licences are not always available to the Library and restrictions may apply).
Unlimited access licence
Access is allowed to an unlimited number of users simultaneously per purchased copy.
Concurrent access
Access is allowed to several users simultaneously per purchased copy.
Single user licence
Access is allowed to only one user at a time per purchased copy. When in use, other users who are trying to access the e-book will either be placed in a queue, or will be notified that the e-book has reached its concurrent user limit.
The Library tries to avoid purchasing this licence as much as possible, however when this is the only option available from the publisher the Library endeavours to purchase a minimum of three copies.
Three user licence
Access is allowed to a maximum of three users simultaneously per purchased copy. When already in use by three users, other users who are trying to access the e-book will either be placed in a queue, or will be notified that the e-book has reached its concurrent user limit.
The Library endeavours to purchase extra copies when the maximum number of users is reached, however be aware that a short gap in access may occur until the extra copies get activated.
Multiple user licence
Access is allowed to several users simultaneously per purchased copy - typically, a maximum of three concurrent users.
Credits-based licence
Access is allowed to a certain number of users simultaneously per purchased copy. These licences operate with credits which the Library purchases: e.g. 200 credits, 325 credits, 400 credits etc. Each credit allows 24 hours of access to a single user, therefore this licence has got the limitation that the e-book may run out of credits if usage is high.
The Library endeavours to purchase extra copies as soon as a title runs out of credits or reaches the maximum number of users allowed. However please be aware that a short gap in access may occur until credits are restored.
DRM-Free licence
Some e-books do not have DRM (Digital Rights Management) restrictions:
- Access is allowed to an unlimited number of users.
- There are no copy, print or download restrictions.
- They do not require an Adobe ID or special software (such as Adobe Digital Editions) installed in your device or PC to download them.