CW MARS LIBRARIES RESPOND TO MACMILLAN EBOOK EMBARGO

CW MARS Libraries wrote to Macmillan Publishers CEO, John Sargent to express their disappointment with the Macmillan ebook embargo planned to start on November 1st. The embargo restricts libraries to purchase one copy of a title during the first 8 weeks (2 months) from the date it was released. Libraries are expecting long wait times for these titles and are concerned about being unable to meet the needs of frustrated readers.

"This embargo punishes those who are most likely to rely on libraries. It perpetuates the digital divide and promotes inequity in access. Libraries are unable to serve the needs of patrons by purchasing additional copies. The assumption that during the 8 week embargo, sales from patrons will exceed what libraries would have spent on content is unrealistic. It is disheartening that you discount the sales that do happen as a direct result of library borrowing, discovery and promotion.

We implore you to work with libraries to provide equitable access to content for all readers. Our libraries have a responsibility to their patrons to provide access in multiple formats. Publisher embargos create a barrier to access that we can not support." Read Full Letter Here.

For more details on publisher restrictions on libraries see the OverDrive FAQ.

Join the campaign and sign the petition to demand #ebooksforall at ebooksforall.org