Do you borrow ebooks through the library's Overdrive app? We've got some news that could affect you.
Recently, publisher Macmillan announced that they would be instituting new restrictions on libraries who offer their ebook titles. During the first 8 weeks after publication, libraries will only be allowed to purchase one copy of a title to offer to library patrons. After the 8 weeks, libraries would be allowed to purchase additional copies at $60 each. These copies would expire after 24 months, or 52 checkouts, whichever comes first. The embargo goes into effect November 1st, 2019.
The CEO of Macmillian sent a letter to authors, illustrators, and agents informing them of the new policy. In it he blames library ebook lending for cutting into consumer sales of their ebooks, though he provided no evidence to validate the statement.
The American Library Association (ALA) released a statement condemning the new policy which reads in part, "Macmillan Publishers’ new model for library ebook lending will make it difficult for libraries to fulfill our central mission: ensuring access to information for all… When a library serving many thousands has only a single copy of a new title in ebook format, it’s the library – not the publisher – that feels the heat. It’s the local library that’s perceived as being unresponsive to community needs."
Do you believe in #ebooks for all? Then help us by voicing your opposition to Macmillan's new policy by signing this petition and telling Macmillan CEO John Sargent that access to ebooks should not be delayed or denied.
Recently, publisher Macmillan announced that they would be instituting new restrictions on libraries who offer their ebook titles. During the first 8 weeks after publication, libraries will only be allowed to purchase one copy of a title to offer to library patrons. After the 8 weeks, libraries would be allowed to purchase additional copies at $60 each. These copies would expire after 24 months, or 52 checkouts, whichever comes first. The embargo goes into effect November 1st, 2019.
The CEO of Macmillian sent a letter to authors, illustrators, and agents informing them of the new policy. In it he blames library ebook lending for cutting into consumer sales of their ebooks, though he provided no evidence to validate the statement.
The American Library Association (ALA) released a statement condemning the new policy which reads in part, "Macmillan Publishers’ new model for library ebook lending will make it difficult for libraries to fulfill our central mission: ensuring access to information for all… When a library serving many thousands has only a single copy of a new title in ebook format, it’s the library – not the publisher – that feels the heat. It’s the local library that’s perceived as being unresponsive to community needs."
Do you believe in #ebooks for all? Then help us by voicing your opposition to Macmillan's new policy by signing this petition and telling Macmillan CEO John Sargent that access to ebooks should not be delayed or denied.