There is a growing negative sentiment that when libraries loan out print or ebooks, that it cannibalizes retail sales. This is why Macmillan took the unprecedented step in only allowing libraries one digital copy of their new ebooks and embargoed additional copies until eight weeks later. Libraries and distributors such as Overdrive, Bibliotheca and Hoopa have publicly stated … [Read more...] about Libraries positively impact retail ebook sales
Digital Library News
ALA starts an online petition against new Macmillan ebook policy
The American Library Association has just written a petition, citing their utter and complete disdain for the new Macmillan library terms. Macmillan is basically only allowing one ebook copy to be available for libraries during the first eight weeks of release and libraries can only issue one ebook at a time.In a July memo addressed to Macmillan authors, illustrators, and … [Read more...] about ALA starts an online petition against new Macmillan ebook policy
Bibliotheca, Hoopla and Overdrive are angry with major publishers
Major publishers have recently changed their ebook terms, en masse. Simon and Schuster changed their audiobook system from a perpetual model to a two year term. Hachette changed their perpetual model system last month and Penguin Random House did the same back in October. Last summer Macmillan implemented an embargo on all new titles to libraries with their science-fiction and … [Read more...] about Bibliotheca, Hoopla and Overdrive are angry with major publishers
Macmillan is going to embargo all ebooks to libraries by 2 months
Libraries are in for a whirlwind of change when it comes to their audiobooks and ebooks. Every major publisher has revised their terms and are obviously sabotaging the entire library system. Macmillan is now taking the cake with their draconian three month embargo of all titles.The Macmillan science-fiction and fantasy imprint TOR was the blueprint of things to come. They … [Read more...] about Macmillan is going to embargo all ebooks to libraries by 2 months
The invisible library: the positive side of increased mobile use
Every year individuals spend more of their day looking at screens, both in the US and around the world. That time includes "traditional" forms of screen time, like watching television, but increasingly it means being online and connected to the digital world. The ubiquity and convenience of handheld mobile devices like e-readers, tablets, and smartphones, means that they are … [Read more...] about The invisible library: the positive side of increased mobile use
You can now listen to Overdrive Libby Audiobooks via Apple CarPlay
Overdrive powers the audiobook and ebook collections of 90% of all libraries in North America and the company has just issued a new update for Libby, so audiobooks can be listened to via Apple CarPlay. All you need is at least an iPhone with iOS 7.1 or newer.The app’s CarPlay integration for rented audiobooks through supported libraries features the ability to change … [Read more...] about You can now listen to Overdrive Libby Audiobooks via Apple CarPlay
Dozens of US libraries are boycotting audiobooks
Over 50 libraries in the US are boycotting audiobooks published by Blackstone audio. This is because Blackstone is going to embargo most of their new release titles by 90 days. The libraries are just the first wave and hundreds of libraries are considering joining the boycott.Blackstone quietly announced its 90-day window on new audiobook releases last month in a message to … [Read more...] about Dozens of US libraries are boycotting audiobooks
Simon & Schuster changes audiobook and ebook terms for libraries
Simon and Schuster has just notified libraries that they will have new terms for audiobooks and ebooks that will go into effect on August 1st, 2019. Digital books will now have two year licenses, instead of one. New releases will cost libraries around $38.99 and $52.99. The publisher will also provide libraries with a select number of ebook titles and libraries will only pay … [Read more...] about Simon & Schuster changes audiobook and ebook terms for libraries
The ALA is taking the high prices of ebooks to the US Congress
Canadian libraries have been complaining for years about the draconian prices publishers charge for ebooks. They often have to pay 500% above the retail cost just for a single use book to loan out to one customer at a time. Many publishers have also revised their business models too, instead of an ebook being valid on a perpetual basis, they now expire after two years. Canadian … [Read more...] about The ALA is taking the high prices of ebooks to the US Congress
Major publishers are sabotaging the public library
Penguin Random House comprises the vast majority of ebooks published on a yearly basis and Macmillan and Hachette almost comprise of the rest. These companies have recently revised their contracts with the public library. Libraries will now have to purchase ebooks that are only good for two year contracts and then will have to devote the resources to see what books they want to … [Read more...] about Major publishers are sabotaging the public library
