Please look through the information below for support information for common course materials issues.
Looking for help on other topics or still can't figure out the issue? Click here to chat with someone about your issue or submit a support request ticket.

ACCESSING PREVIOUSLY PURCHASED E-BOOKS:


TROUBLESHOOTING YOUR E-BOOKS, ACCESS CODES, AND IMMEDIATE ACCESS:

  • Chrome is the suggested web browser for course materials.
  • Pop-up blockers need to be turned off or set to “allowed” for the site.
  • How to get pop-up windows to work:
    1. Disable AdBlock extensions that may be blocking pop-up windows:
    Go to the left of the browser > Click on the three grey dots (if using Chrome) > Select More Tools > Extensions
    OR
    2. On the Address bar, look for an icon that looks like a lock or a switch, click it and find "Permissions" and "Allow pop-up windows"
  • If you don't see your eBook on your VitalSource Bookshelf, click the triangle icon on their top menu, then click "Update Library."
  • Suppose you are being prompted to pay for something you have already purchased. Do NOT purchase the item.
    Please create a support request ticket, or for Immediate Access, email at immediateaccess@iastate.edu.
  • For more information about Immediate Access, visit our Immediate Access page.
  • Please follow the instructions in the email you receive from ubsorder@mail.iastate.edu if you don't see the email check your spam/junk folders in your email.


ACCESS CODES (Top Hat, Thinkspace, Flat World, TK20, etc.):

  • Access codes can be purchased directly from your book list for immediate download. Access Codes are only available for online purchase and are not sold in-store.
  • Once you complete your order, check your email for the instructions to access the product. If you don't see the email check your spam/junk folders in your email..
  • The email will include a key code (not the actual access code!). The key code opens the unique code for your product and additional download instructions.
    Redeem the access code here.
  • Access codes are tied to the email address used to place the online order. The Iowa State email address is strongly encouraged.


EBOOKS (VITALSOURCE):

  • eBooks can be purchased directly from your book list for immediate download.
  • eBooks are “codeless,” which means you just need to log into your VitalSource Accountto see your eBook on your Iowa State VitalSource Bookshelf after you complete your online order.
  • eBooks are tied to the email address used to place the online order. The Iowa State email address is strongly encouraged.
  • To access your eBook, login into your Iowa State VitalSource Bookshelf account.


IMMEDIATE ACCESS:

  • This course material is ready and waiting for you in Canvas on the first day of class. Just click “Immediate Access Course Materials” to get started or view your syllabus for instructions. You will also receive an email with instructions to your Iowa State email.
  • Students automatically receive the reduced course materials cost compared to current print and digital options, charged directly to your U-Bill. View your book list in AccessPlus for details or your U-Bill statement.
  • Opt-out for a refund is available for a limited time. Navigate to “Immediate Access Course Materials” then click “opt-out”. This option is available for the first 10 days of class for full-semester courses or the first 5 days of class for partial semester courses. Refunds are processed with the University after the 10th day of class.
  • Students will be automatically refunded if they drop the course within the first 10 days of class for full-semester courses or the first 5 days of class for partial semester courses.
  • Students who opt-out or drop the course will have their access to the digital course material revoked immediately. Students are encouraged to attend the first day of class to receive instructions and guidance from their instructor before making the decision to opt-out of required material.
  • For more information about Immediate Access, visit our Immediate Access page.