eLangdell FAQ

eLangdell ebook files are free to download. But even more importantly, they lack all DRM.

While your options are limitless for how to read non-DRM files, publishing ebooks that are not locked-down actually makes support a little challenging. The ebook technology landscape is changing rapidly and we're dealing with numerous devices and software, each with its own quirks.

So here's a list of frequently asked questions, but if these don't cover your issue, please contact us and include plenty of details like what browser version, operating system, or device you are using.

 

 

Which file do I choose for my needs?
 

Let's say you want...

  • a version of the eBook file that is printable and most resembles print, with static page numbering, and you do not want to edit its content. PDF
  • to read the eBook on your iPad, Nook, or nearly any non-Kindle device. ePub (ePubs even work on "your computer with a number of free software)
  • to read the eBook on your Kindle. Mobi
  • an easy way to edit or customize the content of the file for redistribution to students, or for other non-commercial uses. Word (edit the file then distribute to your students however you like, including eLangdell Commons) 

 

What's an .epub file?

An .epub file is a type of file designed especially for ebooks and ereaders. It's most notably the format of choice for iBooks, iPads, iPhones, and Apple devices. Epub files do not work on Kindles. For that you'll need the .mobi.

 

How do I use an .epub?

If you'd like to use our .epubs, you can use one of many combinations of compatible ebook devices along with software and/or mobile apps. While fancy devices like iPads are pricey, ebook reader software is available for free for most widely-used devices like smartphones and computers.

To read an .epub on your PC or Mac computer, you'll need to download and install software, most of which is free. Nook's desktop app for either PC or Mac works well.

 

Why did I get a .zip file instead of .epub?

We've found that a few Windows machines take our .epubs and, inexplicably, rename the .epub file extension .zip. None of our ebook files should come to you in .zip format. If you're seeing a .zip file, it's an error.

The easiest way to fix this is by renaming your file from XXXX.zip back to XXXX.epub. Then make sure you open the .epub file with an epub-compatible software or device.

 

If I have an iPad, which file do I download?

The .epub version.

 

Can I download ebooks directly to my iPad, iPhone, or other Apple device?

Yes, if you're on an iPad, iPhone, or other internet-capable mobile Apple device you can download the .epub directly to your device, effectively bypassing the computer download and transfer process. You must have the standard iBooks app. Just use your device's Safari browser to browse to the .epub download link and download the .epub like normal. Your iPad or iPhone will ask you if you would like to open in iBooks (which you do).

 

How do I transfer my ebook file from computer to iPad, Kindle, Nook or ereader device?

This varies greatly depending on which device you use. This one minute video shows how to easily transfer your .epub to an iPad; it also applies to iPhones and iPod Touches. Here's an equally short video on how to transfer a .mobi to a Kindle. Here's a not-quite-as-concise video for how to transfer .epubs to Nook.

Do some searching around the web for how to transfer the file to your specific device and you'll likely find similar videos and how-tos. Don't hesitate to contact us if you're having issues with the transfer.

 

How do I view ebooks on a PC or Mac?

We recommend the .epub version. But first, you'll need to install a compatible software like Nook's desktop apps or even the Firefox extension EPUBreader.

More .epub-compatible software options, some of which also read .mobis, can be found in Wikipedia's .epub software listing. Look around and experiment with different options. Find which one works best for you.

 

What's a .mobi file?

A .mobi, like an .epub, is a file extension designed especially for ebooks; but mostly for the Amazon Kindle.

You can read .mobi files on your PC or Mac with certain software; but we usually recommend using the .epub version in most instances unless you're transferring your book to a Kindle.

 

If I have an Amazon Kindle, which file do I download?

The .mobi version.