VitalSource E-Books User Guide

VitalSource is a leading provider of e-textbook solutions. AAPP provides some of its educational resources through VitalSource to all users to read and annotate the document from nearly any device. It is more convenient than managing a library of PDFs, and it is more accessible than only viewing them online.

Step 1: Claim the E-Book and Log Into VitalSource

  1. Click the resource that you want to view so that you can see the "View resource in VitalSource" intro text.
  2. Click the "Open E-Book in New Window" button.
  3. If your account is already connected for this book, then you will be taken directly to the book. Otherwise, create an account and/or log into the site.

Troubleshoot

I did not create an account initially. How do I do that now?

If you did not create an account on initial access, you can do it later by clicking the house icon in the top-left and then clicking the account menu (a person icon) in the top-right. Click "Get Started" to create an account.

I do not want to create an account with VitalSource. Can I still access the e-book?

Yes. You can access the e-book, but you will only be able to access it in a web browser. Simply return to the appropriate AAPP page and access the resource link. You will not be able to access the e-book offline.

Step 2: Download the E-Book to Your iPad

  1. Make sure you complete Step 1 online first so that your account has access to the e-book.
  2. Install the Bookshelf app from iTunes.
  3. Open Bookshelf once installed and log in using the account you created in Step 1.
  4. The e-book should now appear in your Library (click Menu and then Library)

Troubleshoot

I cannot install software or apps on my device.

Without installing the software/app, you will not be able to access the e-book offline. However, you will still be able to access the e-book through a web browser by returning to the appropriate AAPP page and access the resource link.

I do not use an Apple iOS (iPad/iPhone) device

Not a problem! VitalSource supports most devices, including your laptop! Some of the screens may look different than on an Apple device, but most of the tips on this page should still apply. Download VitalSource for your non-iOS device.

I do not see the e-book in my library after completing both Step 1 and Step 2.

If the e-book does not appear in your library, then go to the Menu and click "Update Library". If the e-book still does not appear, then repeat Step 1 and then Update Library again.

Step 3: Highlight and Take Notes!

  1. Touch and hold (do not just tap) a word in the e-book to bring up the highlighter/notes buttons.
  2. Adjust the text selection to contain all of the text relevant to your highlight/note.
  3. Tap "Create Highlight" or "Add Note" as applicable.
  4. Notes will be synced between devices and to your online account. The sync requires an Internet connection and may take up to 20 minutes.
  5. For more in-depth instructions, see the official iOS guide to Using Notes and Highlights.

Troubleshoot

I do not use an Apple iOS (iPad/iPhone) device. Can I take notes?

Absolutely! VitalSource supports most devices, including your laptop! However, the note-taking functionality can vary by device. For example, you simply select text with your mouse on a laptop to make the highlighter menu appear. For instructions for your device, see the official support guide.

Step 4: Need More Help?

Go to the VitalSource support center for more help getting started.