Millions of public library customers use digital content as their preferred access to books. Often, it’s their only access. Recently Macmillan Publishers announced a new policy that libraries would be allowed to purchase only one copy upon release of a popular new title in eBook format, after which the publisher would impose an eight-week embargo on additional copies of that title sold to libraries. This structure makes it a challenge to provide access to all.
In 2018, Denver Public Library saw nearly 1.7 million downloads of eBooks. Between 2014 and 2018, we have seen an increase of 147% for downloads. The demand continues to increase. At present, we have an average wait time of 40 days for eBooks. If we are limited to one copy during that two-month timeframe, the wait time will skyrocket.
The library is a place of learning and opportunity; the Macmillan policy will inhibit availability. Customers with a disability or learning issues would have fewer options, and readers living in remote locations, along with students and researchers, would also be negatively affected. In addition, eBooks can easily become large-type books, and most eBook devices offer options that make reading easier for people with dyslexia.
More than 229,000 people have added their names to a petition launched by the American Library Association. Join us in advocating for fair access by logging on to eBooksForAll.org to sign the petition to call for Macmillan to reverse their policy.
— Michelle Jeske
Denver City Librarian