Muskego library shifts vendors after Baker & Taylor disruption; ramps Amazon and Ingram orders

Muskego — Library staff told the Muskego Public Library Board of Trustees on Oct. 21 that Baker & Taylor, the library’s largest vendor, is experiencing business difficulties and the library has begun shifting orders to other suppliers, including Ingram and Amazon.

The director said Baker & Taylor — a long-established book distributor — showed signs of trouble earlier in the year. To avoid gaps in acquisitions, staff have activated existing relationships with Ingram and five or six other vendors and have been placing supplemental orders through Amazon.

Staff described operational strain: one staff member reported opening 183 Amazon boxes in two weeks to keep the collection supplied while vendors are reconfigured. The board was told the library’s supplier strategy now includes a broader vendor base to reduce reliance on any single distributor.

Trustees asked about continuity and costs; staff said Ingram has become a heavier source while they onboard other vendors. No new budget or contract was authorized at the Oct. 21 meeting; staff said they are working within existing procurement rules and will report further if there are price or delivery issues that require board action.