Deep Linking to a Specific Location in an eBook (LTI 1.3)
This guide explains how to insert a link to a specific location within an eBook into your module using the LTI 1.3 Deep Linking tool in your VLE (e.g., Moodle, Canvas, Blackboard, D2L/Brightspace). You will browse the book’s Table of Contents, select the precise chapter, section, or page, and add it as part of your learning materials.
Before you begin: Your institution must have LTI 1.3 integration enabled, and you must have the appropriate permissions to add content to the module.
1) Open the Deep Linking tool
- In your VLE module, navigate to the area where you can add external learning tools (for example, “External Tool”, “Learning Tools”, or “Add to Topic/Section”).
- Select the VitalSource/Bookshelf Deep Linking tool (the name may vary depending on your institution).
2) Browse the Table of Contents
- When the Deep Linking window opens, choose the relevant title if prompted.
- Use the Table of Contents to navigate. You may expand sections to choose a chapter, sub-section, or other item (e.g., a figure or appendix).
- Optionally, use the search function (if available) to locate keywords, then select the required location.
3) Add your selected material
- After highlighting the desired location, select Add/Select (button text may vary, e.g., “Add Selection”, “Select Content”).
- Confirm the item to be added — you should see the book title and the specific section/page reference.
4) Review your selections
- A summary screen will appear showing the material you have chosen. Check the details (book title, chapter/section name, link type).
- If necessary, remove or amend the selection, then proceed.
5) Finalise and add to module
- Select Add to Course (or the equivalent term used by your VLE). The deep link will be created in your module content area.
- Back in the VLE, you can move the item, rename it, set availability dates, or organise it alongside other resources.
How the link works for learners
- Learners click the link in the module and are taken directly to the specified location in the eBook within Bookshelf.
- Access requires an active licence for the title. If a learner does not have access, they will be prompted in accordance with your institution’s procedures.
Tips
- Use descriptive link titles (e.g., “Week 3: Chapter 4 – Cellular Respiration (pp. 72–85)”).
- If you require multiple locations, repeat the steps to add additional deep links.
- Place items in the correct week/topic folder to maintain a well-structured module.
Troubleshooting
- Cannot launch the tool? Ensure you are in an area that supports external tools and that LTI 1.3 is enabled for the module.
- Cannot see the correct book? Confirm that the title is provisioned to your module or search again from the selector screen.
- Learners see an access/licence prompt? Verify that the title has been adopted/licensed for the module and that learners are correctly enrolled.
2. Browse the Table of Contents (TOC)
The eBook’s Table of Contents will now display.
Click the chapter title to create a deep link to the full chapter.
Or, click the arrow next to a chapter to expand and view individual sections.
3. Add Your Selected Materials
Click on the chapter or section titles you want to link to. Your selections will be highlighted in blue.
When ready, scroll to the bottom and click “Add Materials.”
4. Review Your Selections
A side panel will appear showing the materials you've selected. Click “Review & Submit” to proceed.
5. Finalize and Add to Course
On the confirmation screen, you can remove any links if needed. When ready, click “Add to Course.”
The deep links will now be added to your LMS. You can edit the titles, move them into different modules, or organize them however you'd like.