Need a specific title that isn't in the Shared Collection? Purchasing Private Titles allows you to buy individual copies for your school's exclusive use.
Video Tutorial
We have created comprehensive video playlists to guide you through every feature. Whether you need a quick "how-to" on a specific topic or a full walkthrough, these are great resources to have on hand:
What are Private Titles?
While your subscription gives you access to a massive Shared Collection, you may occasionally need specific books that aren't included there. A Private Title is a book you purchase individually for your school's exclusive use. Once purchased, these titles are added to your library catalogue. Unlike the Shared Collection, these copies are reserved solely for your students—no one from other schools can borrow them.
Private Collections on ePlatform:
- Exclusive Access: Only your students can borrow these copies.
- No Ongoing Fees: You pay a one-off price for the license.
- Integrated Experience: From a student's perspective, private titles look exactly the same as shared titles. They appear in search results and the browse page automatically.
Private Titles vs Class Sets
When to choose Private Titles:
Purchasing a Private Title is best when you are looking to build your long-term library collection or fill specific gaps in the Shared Collection. You pay the standard list price for the license, and you own the copy permanently (or for the duration of the license term). This option follows the standard "one copy, one user" lending rule, meaning if you buy one copy, only one student can borrow it at a time.
When to choose a Class Set:
A Class Set Booking is the better choice for English curriculum requirements or book clubs where a whole group needs to read the same book simultaneously. Instead of paying full price for 30 permanent copies you might only use once a year, you rent the licenses at a significantly reduced rate. This allows up to 150 students to borrow the title at the same time for a fixed duration (1-12 months).
How to Purchase Private Titles
1. Search the Shop
Go to the Shop tab in your portal and search for the title you wish to purchase.
2. Select License Type
If the selected title is also available as a Class Set, to purchase as a Private Title, select "Standard Pricing". If the title is not available as a Class Set, the standard pricing will be displayed by default.
3. Select Quantity
If you need multiple students to be able to read the book at the same time, you must purchase multiple copies. (Note: There are no volume discounts for private titles. If you need 10+ copies for a short time, check if a Class Set is available instead.)
4. Confirm Purchase
Add your title(s) to your basket and follow the steps to complete your purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Private Titles expire?
Most Private Titles are "Perpetual," meaning you own the license for the life of the platform. However, some publishers (particularly for very popular front-list titles) may sell licenses under a metered model, such as 36 loans or a 24-month term. This information is clearly displayed in the Shop before you purchase (on the title screen, look for the "i" icon to view the publisher's terms).
If I buy one Private Title, can multiple students read it at once?
Standard Private Titles operate on a "One Copy, One User" model, just like a physical book. If you purchase one copy, only one student can have it on loan at a time. If you need a whole class to read it simultaneously, consider a Class Set Booking instead.
How long does it take for a purchased title to appear in our library?
Once your checkout is complete, the titles are usually processed and visible in your library catalogue within 5–10 minutes. Students will be able to search for and borrow them immediately after this.
Can I "hide" a Private Title so only specific students can see it?
By default, Private Titles are visible to your entire school. If you want to restrict a title to a specific age group or year level, you can do so via the Age Restrictions settings in your admin dashboard.
What happens if our school stops subscribing to a Shared Collection?
Your Private Collection belongs to your school. Even if you choose to change or cancel your Shared Collection subscription, any Private Titles you have purchased remain yours and will continue to be accessible to your students on your ePlatform portal.
Can I return or exchange a Private Title if I bought it by mistake?
Because digital content is delivered instantly, we generally cannot offer refunds once a title has been added to your library. We recommend double-checking the format (eBook vs. Audiobook) and the title details in your basket before confirming your purchase.