States Propose Legislation to Make E-Books More Affordable for Libraries

As libraries grapple with the high costs of digital content, several states introduce bills to close the affordability gap, facing opposition from publishers.

• Libraries across the United States are struggling with the high costs of e-books and audiobooks, with prices significantly higher than physical copies.
• Legislation is being proposed in several states, including Connecticut, Massachusetts, Illinois, Hawaii, and New Hampshire, to make digital content more affordable for libraries.
• Publishers argue that the proposed legislation undermines intellectual property rights and could harm the publishing ecosystem.
• In 2021, a Maryland law requiring publishers to offer e-books to libraries on reasonable terms was struck down, highlighting the legal challenges of regulating e-book pricing.
• The demand for digital content has surged since the COVID-19 pandemic, with libraries facing budget strains and patrons experiencing long waiting lists for popular titles.

3 Articles

Washington Examiner Financial Post Associated Press