Purpose: The paper seeks to describe the provision of access to the Safari Tech Books collection of e-books at Hillingdon Libraries. Design/methodology/approach: Details are given of how the e-books collection is part of a broader range of e-information services provided by Hillingdon. Methods of searching for e-books are described, with screenshots, advantages to library staff are outlined and aspects of administration and promotion are discussed. Findings: The Safari Tech Books Online service has been useful for novice and specialist users as well as for library staff in answering reference queries. Originality/value: Practical details are given of providing access to e-books to users of a public library.