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Curtin University
Library

e-Reserve FAQs

What software do I need to access e-Reserve?

To access documents in e-Reserve you need Adobe Reader Version 8. You can download this software from Adobe's web page.

Why do I need to put in my Curtin ID and Password to access e-Reserve material?

Access to e-Reserve material is limited to Curtin students and staff in order to comply with copyright legislation on reproducing material for academic purposes. For more information on your Curtin ID and Password.

Why does it take so long to open some documents?

A considerable proportion of the material held in e-Reserve has been scanned. This creates an image file which often makes the file size very large and slow to download. Other factors which also influence the download speed include:

  • Speed of the internet connection or modem
  • Network/internet congestion
  • Whether your Internet Service Provider has restrictions on download times
  • Using an old version of the Adobe Reader software
  • The size of the scanned document

Can I save the documents then view or print them later?

Yes. You can save documents by either clicking on the floppy disk icon in the Adobe Reader menu or by choosing File from the browser menu and then Save As. The files can only be read in Adobe so it is important to leave the extension as .pdf.

If you are saving .pdfs in the library, you may need a large amount of storage space to save these (e.g. a memory stick). Alternatively, save them to the desktop of your own computer.

Why is the print very small when I view the document on the screen?

You can increase the size of the print on screen. On the Adobe Reader menu there is a small window with a percentage in it (e.g. 100%) and if you increase this percentage the print will get bigger. Alternatively, you can zoom in on sections of the print by clicking on the magnifying icon, which is also on the toolbar.

Why does the document open but not print, or prints incomplete document?

When the print dialog box comes up, make sure the 'print as image' option is ticked.

I get the copyright notice but why doesn't the document open?

You need to download the current version of Adobe Reader. Earlier versions may have problems with some documents. You may also experience difficulties if Adobe Reader has not been loaded. For the current version of Adobe Reader and for more detailed help on installing and/or resolving problems with Adobe Reader try Adobe's website.

In addition, please ensure that javascript and cookies are enabled. Both of these things need to be enabled for e-Reserve to work successfully.

The problem may also be due to the setup of your computer. Often a firewall can prevent access, as can security options in your browser or anti-virus programs. Make sure you use the link from the Curtin Library home page. Do not bookmark the login.
In summary,

  • enable cookies
  • enable javascript
  • disable firewalls
  • disable ad blockers and spyware

What are the benefits of e-Reserve for academic staff?

e-Reserve benefits

How do I add an item to e-Reserve (academic staff)?

Adding items to Reserve/e-Reserve

How do I link from e-Reserve to Blackboard (academic staff)?

Linking e-Reserve items to Blackboard - LibGuide