Have a look at this video that explains the 2 main types of OERs.
Digital rights management (DRM) is any system used by publishers and vendors to embed limits on what users can do with electronic files, such as e-books and videos. These limits are designed to restrict copying, sharing and reformatting.
Whilst most OERs are published under open licenses with the ability to adapt and modify, Digital Rights Management free (DRM-free) resources allow greater flexibility and accessibility than standard e-book platforms. For example, this might include the ability to download and print greater portions of an e-book.
Some benefits of DRM-free resources include:
Copyright restrictions include:
Open Educational Resources | DRM-free Resources |
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Open licensed, so resources may be:
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Traditional copyright applies, so:
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Free to access online | Purchased by the library and available through the library website |
Wide variety of different publishers and authors and formats | Published by traditional academic publishers |
While many publishers include DRM-free books within their existing collections, below are some publishers that provide extensive DRM-free resources.
EBSCO Faculty Select (2.34 min) by EBSCO. YouTube
If you would like the library to purchase a DRM-free textbook, please submit a Purchase Request Form, or use the 'Contact Us' details on this page.