CLAMS Network libraries strive to offer a variety of materials to meet the needs of their patrons. With the rising interest in electronically-available materials, CLAMS libraries are offering an increasing number of e-books through the OverDrive digital service. Recently, publisher
Harper Collins announced a change in its policy of providing e-books to libraries. As of March 7th, new library e-book purchases from Harper Collins will be limited to 26 circulations.
E-books purchased from Harper Collins prior to March 7th are not affected by this new policy. In view of this change, CLAMS libraries have agreed not to purchase e-books from Harper Collins for the foreseeable future. We feel the action taken by Harper Collins to limit the number of times an item will circulate is contrary to library policies on access to materials. Many of our physical materials circulate more than 26 times. Libraries try to make their materials budgets go as far as possible. At a time when budgets are strained, libraries cannot afford to replace materials before the end of their useful life.
We understand that this will mean that some titles will not be available through our OverDrive digital catalog. However, CLAMS libraries will continue to make as many titles as possible available, without restrictive lending limits, in electronic as well as physical formats.
For more information, please contact your local library.
Read the American Library Association
official statement in response to HarperCollins.
Posts
