Even as popularity of digital content is growing, publishers continue to change their eBook purchasing policies for public libraries, usually to the detriment of customer access.

Under Macmillan’s new policy on November 1, 2019, libraries can only buy one copy of an eBook when it is first released to the public. After eight weeks, we are then allowed to purchase additional copies; meaning that our library customers, as well as library customers all over the country, will be denied access for eight weeks to the eBook versions of the latest titles by authors like Nora Roberts (J.D. Robb), Louise Penny, Mary Kay Andrews and Linda Castillo, at which point the wait list could be hundreds of customers long.

Here's the truth: Limiting access to new titles for libraries means limiting access for readers like you.

We have long considered ourselves partners with the publishing community. Libraries play by the rules. We adhere to copyright laws and we are willing to pay fair prices for the content we purchase for you. Not only are we spending significant revenues on electronic content, but studies have found that borrowing eBooks and eAudiobooks actually leads to increased consumer sales for publishers, as customers find a new favorite author at their library and purchase future titles. Libraries want to purchase content from publishers and support the authors they represent, but Macmillan’s new policy needs to be rescinded so we can continue to effectively serve you.

The American Library Association, the Public Library Association, the Urban Libraries Council, and others across the country are speaking out. At Carroll County Public Library, we are adding our voice to this growing movement to say “Enough is enough!”

We need your voice as well. This policy shift acts as an attack on the very mission of the library. We urge you to contact Macmillan to express your concerns about this recent purchasing policy decision, which limits your access to eContent. Tell Macmillan CEO John Sargent that access to eBooks should not be delayed or denied. We must have #eBooksForAll!

See CCPL Executive Director Andrea Berstler's letter to library supporters, customers and friends on Macmillan’s new policy.

Contact CEO John Sargent at the following information:

Macmillan Publishers
Mr. John Sargent, CEO
120 Broadway
New York, New York 10271
(800) 221-7945
press.inquiries@macmillan.com

Sign the American Library Association petition to put pressure on Macmillan Publishing to reverse their controversial eContent policy change.