The phrase denotes the act of acquiring a digital model of a literary work, usually in Moveable Doc Format (PDF), for free of charge and infrequently by a hyperlink or file included with an digital communication. An instance could be discovering a hyperlink accompanying an e-mail that, when clicked, gives entry to a free digital e-book in PDF type.
The attraction of readily accessible, cost-free literature has fueled the proliferation of this observe. The provision of books on this method has enabled broader entry to info and leisure, notably in areas the place bodily books are scarce or prohibitively costly. Traditionally, this development is rooted within the open-source motion and the will to democratize entry to data.