Library EBooks Get No Love

With libraries basking in the post-Christmas glow of a renewed patron interest in eBooks, one would think only positive things would be on the library eBooks horizon. Unfortunately, beginning last fall, libraries have seen a continued decline in the number of publishers wishing to sell them library eBooks, culminating in Penguin’s most recent announcement that they will no longer be offering additional copies of eBooks and downloadable audiobooks for purchase through OverDrive.

In November 2011, Penguin declared that they would no longer be selling new eBook titles through OverDrive (see my post on this). Following that, both BrillianceAudio and Penguin pulled their audiobooks selections from OverDrive in January. Penguin’s final straw came on February 9, 2012, when they announced they would be ceasing sales through OverDrive February 10, 2012. This latest development followed Random House’s affirmation that it would continue to sell eBooks to libraries without any lending restrictions, but would be raising prices. Although there is talk that Penguin is working on a "continuance agreement" for materials that libraries have already purchased, Random House is the only one of the Big Six publishers selling through OverDrive at this time.

Penguin’s retraction seems to have signaled a “gloves-off” response on the part of libraries. Not only are well-known blogger librarians providing their followers with scripts for how to talk to their patrons about their decreased eBook selection, others are posting information in their libraries about how to contact publishers. Although these measures may seem drastic, if we are to heed the warning of Andy Woodworth’s number one prediction for 2012 – “Here Come The Embargoes!” – this may be the moment for libraries and eBooks.

Whichever way librarians choose to fight it, libraries do need to stay in the eBook loop and that may mean either considering alternative suppliers or alternative ways to offer eBooks. Due to changes in OverDrive lending, some libraries have already launched their own eBook platforms. It is hard to say how this will all develop, the eBook landscape is definitely shifting.

Romance and the Library

Romance and the Library?  A Match made in Heaven...

            Do the dusty, quiet stacks of a library sound like a hot date spot?  I think so!  

Meet the new wave of events that has been slowly building into public libraries. It is speed-dating served with a side of literary love.  Vancouver Public Library is just one Canadian example.  A recent article in the Globe and Mail described VPL’s programs as “Read Dating.”  Interested participants rotate around the room with two vital components: a favourite book and a literary pseudonym (for instance, I might choose to be Jane Austen for the night).   The book is used as an icebreaker tool to ease individuals into conversation and to give them the opportunity to speak on a topic that they are familiar with.  The literary pseudonym is used for confidentiality to limit the pressure to reveal too much personal information during the night. 

             VPL has held two events so far and have planned two more in February surrounding Valentine’s Day.  The two previous events have been split between heterosexual 19-35 year olds and LGBTQ participants.  Having success with both events, VPL has realized that they are offering a safe and fun experience. Medicine Hat Public Library has coordinated similar speed-dating events but they have also included activities such as games and movies. 

                Why is this great idea? 

1.       Participants can arrive ready to discuss their true interests in reading.  By sharing their thoughts on a book, participants have a unique opportunity to create new reading lists, maybe try a genre that they otherwise might avoid, or even swap books in the process. 

2.       It has the possibility to change the community’s perception of the library. Planning events like this catered to Adults demonstrates a playful side of the library and innovative thinking in terms of events and programs.

3.       It’s all about networking and building relationships in the community.  For those newcomers to the city, it is a nice environment to meet others, even if a romantic relationship doesn’t necessarily follow.  Sometimes it’s just nice to discuss books!

To read the full Globe and Mail article, please visit here

 

VPL’s “Read Dating” programs can be found here: http://www.vpl.ca/cgi-bin/Calendar/calendar.cgi

“Love at the Library” at Medicine Hat Public Library can be found on their website: http://www.mhpl.info/  

EPL Early Literacy Videos

As part of Edmonton Public Library's current focus on early literacy, they have launched some great videos with songs and rhymes that kids can enjoy. They are both entertaining and educational and provide a nice break in the day for busy moms or caregivers. The videos are well done, short and very appealing for young viewers.

So far they have launched 3 videos dubbed as "Storytime Station" and will be launching one a week for the next 5 weeks on the Edmonton Public Library YouTube channel. The first few can be found at http://www.youtube.com/user/edmontonpl?feature=watch, and the rest will follow a similar approach of rhyme and animation.

EPL has given permission for libraries to share, post and use these videos in any way they wish. They do have EPL branding at the beginning and end but the rhymes are universal. There is an epromo kit available for libraries to use if you are interested in sharing these on your website (the kit includes banners and titles). Please let me (Terra) know if you are interested in accessing these.

A great example of the ways libraries can serve a need identified in their community.