Research guides: Architecture: Find Books

Finding and accessing ebooks

University of Waterloo students, faculty and staff can find ebooks in Omni, the library's catalogue.

You can search the catalogue for ebooks the same way you would for print books. Use the 'Waterloo online resources' link in the Advanced Search box to search ebooks only. You may also limit your book search results to 'Available online' from the left sidebar.

Or, try searching in one of the ebook databases listed below.

Find books beyond the catalogue

Idea Exchange (aka Cambridge Public Library) also purchases architecture and design-related titles. They have many duplicates of titles in our collection.

You can also search the collections of libraries in the region and thousands more around the world by using the catalogues listed below.

Interlibrary loan catalogue
Ontario, Canadian and selected international library catalogues
WorldCat
A union catalog that itemizes the collections of 17,900 libraries in 123 countries and territories. Allow you to search the collections of libraries in your community and thousands more around the world simultaneously.

Full text ebook databases

eBook Collection on Ebscohost
Full-text electronic books, in a wide range of subject areas.
Coverage: 1959 - 2004
The electronic version is created by scanning the print version, including all text and graphics. Each book may be accessed by two users at a time.

Pidgeon Digital
A collection of historical and recent talks given by some of the world's most important architectural professionals. Pidgeon Digital is offering temporary access to member institutions during COVID-19 closures.

ProQuest eBook Central
Contains ebooks from multiple disciplines as selected by liaison librarians.
Coverage: varies
These books are catalogued individually. This interface allows for searching within the full text of the books.
RIBA Architectural Library Catalogue Online
Find details about holdings (periodicals, books, and audio visual materials) of the Royal Institute of British Architects Library.
Coverage: 1980's - present
Scholars Portal Books
Full-text ebooks in a wide range of subject areas

Coverage:Varies
This online platform hosts multiple resources.

Note: Local saving restrictions: Saving in PDF format restricted to 15% of a work.
SpringerLink - eBooks
Ebooks, and book chapters from physical sciences, engineering, life sciences, health sciences, social sciences, humanities, business, and education.
Coverage: To current

Open Access ebooks

Directory of Open Access Books (DOAB)

Primary aim of DOAB is to increase discoverability of Open Access books. There is a 'Basic' and 'Advanced Search'. You can also Browse including 'by subject' for 'Arts and Architecture'
Open Access Publishing in European Networks (OAPEN)

OAPEN Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation based in the Netherlands, with its registered office at the National Library in The Hague. Dedicated to open access, peer-reviewed books. Try searching for architect* as the 'Subject' in the 'Advance Search' option.
Open Humanities Press
Project Muse

In the 'Browse' window you can do a keyword search and limit access to ‘Only content I have access to.' There is also an 'Advanced Search' option.