dawsonera FAQs

What is dawsonera?

It is a software platform that contains a catalogue of eBooks for purchase by libraries. It is accessed via the internet just like a website. The software enables a library to manage a growing collection of eBooks, and readers to discover and read eBooks.

In contrast with most other eBooks providers, dawsonera provides access to a wide range of UK and European publishers.

What is the subscription model?

Each eBook purchased is charged at the list price set by the publisher plus a small hosting fee. There are no other charges (no annual subscription, maintenance, or platform fees). The books are owned in 'perpetuity' but can be weeded out when out-of-date as with a hard copy collection.  

How do I log onto dawsonera?

You need to create an individual account on one of the library public computers prior to using the system for the first time. Thereafter this account can be used for any internet-enabled computer, whether at the library, at home, school (though not for teaching or as part of lessons) or work.

How do I find the eBooks I want?

eBook records are loaded on the library catalogue soon after purchase. Search our online catalogue as usual or limit your search to just eResources, then click on the link in the record. You can also search in dawsonera itself using a range of search criteria such as author, title, or keyword (full-text search). The system also enables you to append your own notes and comments, export citations and bookmark your favourite titles or chapters.

How are the eBooks viewed?

The eBooks are presented as PDFs and read or downloaded using Adobe Reader. Items purchased by the library can be viewed in full text and you also have access to non-owned content for 5 minutes.

You can suggest a title - listed on dawsonera but not currently owned - for purchase by sending its details (including the ISBN) to libraries.informationservices@kent.gov.uk.

Can an eBook be downloaded for offline reading?

Yes, although reading online is more common for this type of non fiction material, it is  possible to download the eBook to a laptop or memory stick. You have the option to download the item for 1, 2 or 3 days, after which access to the download will be denied. You can then go back to download it again or read it online.

Can more than one person read an eBook owned by my library?

Yes, however to preserve the intellectual property rights of the publisher usage cannot be totally unlimited. It is capped during the year for each copy owned using a system of credits (the number of which is determined by the publisher). Any usage by one individual (continuously or intermittently during a 24 hr period) or 1 day download equal to one credit. If usage approaches this "cap", the library will need to buy another copy to ensure continued access.

Can I print or extract portions of an eBook?

Yes, in line with the "fair dealing" rules of current copyright legislation you may print up to 5% of the book or extract 5% of the text - but no more than that. The system is set-up to regulate this automatically. For full details see the dawsonera terms and conditions of use.

Does dawsonera support visually impaired users?

Yes, the standard functions of Adobe Reader that allow for a page to be enlarged or to be read aloud are available. Screen Readers such as JAWS, Text Help and Read & Write Gold are also supported.

Need some help? Contact Ask a Kent Librarian.