FAQ: What is Thorium Reader and how do I install it?

What is Thorium Reader?

Thorium Reader is a digital book reader software required to open downloaded full-text EBSCO eBooks. It is designed to be accessible and includes a variety of helpful features, including note-taking, highlighting, and bookmarking.

Beginning May 19, 2026, you must use Thorium Reader to view full-text EBSCO eBooks that have been downloaded for offline use.

Installing Thorium Reader on Your Computer

Download Thorium Reader for Windows, Mac, and Linux  This link opens in a new window

Minimum system requirement: macOS Monterey and up; Windows 10 and up; Ubuntu 18.04, Fedora 32, Debian 10 and newer.

1. Select the correct download option for your computer system.
2. Once the application has downloaded, click the Thorium Reader Installer in your computer's Downloads folder.
3. Click through the installation options to install Thorium Reader on your computer.
4. Once installation is complete, you can open the Thorium Reader.

Mobile Device Download:

At this time, Thorium Reader only has a mobile app for iOS devices. A mobile app for Android is on their roadmap for the future.  

Accessibility Features:

Thorium Reader hosts a number of accessibility features, including:

• Screen reader compatibility: The application is compatible with accessible technologies like screen readers, including JAWS, NVDA, Narrator, and VoiceOver.
• Read-aloud feature: It includes a read-aloud feature with visual highlighting and the ability to change the voice and speed at which text is read.
• Keyboard shortcuts: Thorium Reader can be used with the mouse or the keyboard, and keyboard shortcuts are configurable.
• Customizable display: The display can be customized to meet the needs of users, including colors, text size, spacing, font and layout.

For more information on Thorium Reader's accessibility features, see Thorium's Accessibility Statement.This link opens in a new window

More Information:

• For additional information, see EBSCO's Thorium Reader FAQ page This link opens in a new window
• Check out the FAQ: How do I download eBooks from EBSCO? To learn more about how to download EBSCO eBooks and use the Thorium Reader.