VitalSource eBook Instructions

Note: Once you reveal a code, the e-textbook is no longer returnable.

How To Access your VitalSource eTextbook

Buy online and receive access to your course right in your inbox.  Buy in store and your code will be on your receipt or a link will be printed on your receipt which will take you to your access code.

Keep your activation email that you receive from your online order.  The email has your activation link needed to access your Digital Access Content. You will receive an email from do.not.reply@vitalsource.com with the subject, Activate your digital content access.  Click the link in the email to access your eTextbook.

  1. 1.      Click the link in your activation email to begin the activation process.  Enter your email address to sign into Bookshelf or create a new account.  Do not click the No Thanks, I’ll skip this step button at the bottom.  If you do not remember your password, Reset your password.
  2. 2.      After a quick refresh, your eTextbook will be in your library.  Click on your Book’s cover to open it and begin reading.

 How to Access eResources/Courseware

What is an eResource/Courseware?

An eResource is an additional resource that accompanies an e-textbook such as a website (i.e., Cengage MindTap, Pearson MyLabs, etc.)

How do you access an eResource?

When a book has an accompanying eResource, you will access this through the online VitalSource Bookshelf e-textbook platform following the steps below: 

  1. Log into Bookshelf Online.
  2. Using your mouse, click the Account icon in the top-right corner to access the drop-down menu.
  3. When one or more of your e-textbooks have an accompanying eResource, the Resources menu will appear.  Use your mouse to select the link.

Note: If you don’t see the Resources menu, and you think you should, then try selecting Tools >Update Library

  1. The Resources page will list any e-textbooks that have accompanying materials.  To reveal the access code, click the “Reveal Code.”
  2. Your professor should have a custom link listed in their course for your content.  Click that link and follow the prompts to enter your revealed pub code.

Need More Help?

Go to support.vitalsource.com

Students can get help around the clock by phone, email or live chat!