LibGuides: E-Books: Turnaways

Why do I see 'all available copies currently in use' or a similar message when using some e-books?

Owing to publisher restrictions, some of our e-books do limit the number of simultaneous users and some may even only allow one reader at a time If you see this message, the limit has been reached. You will need to wait until one of the users finishes with the e-book before you can access it. Ebook Central lets you join a waiting list and receive a notification when the book is available.

The Library team receives a ‘turnaway’ report every time one of our users tries and fails to access a title for this reason.

Library Policy

The library will monitor usage of ebook licences, including tracking when users are turned away due to licence limits.
If a title is turned away more than 10 times in 24 hours then the library will consider purchasing additional licences.
For essential / core reading-list texts, the library will aim to acquire licences that allow multiple concurrent users or unlimited access, where licences are available and budgets permit.
Automatic licence upgrade mechanisms (if available from vendors) will be used to reduce barriers to access.
Delays may occur if cost is significantly higher or licensing options are limited; in such cases, the library will consult relevant subject staff.