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Libraries push Albany to act on ebook licensing after years of costly 'metered' terms
Summary
Library officials presented testimony about ebook licensing that lets publishers sell libraries limited-use leases (metered access), forcing frequent repurchases and long holds; witnesses urged the Assembly to advance ebook legislation to secure fairer terms for public libraries and patrons.
Library directors and system leaders told the Assembly committee that current ebook licensing models—often metered by checkouts or time limits—impose disproportionate costs on public libraries and limit access for readers.
Adam Traub, chair of NYLA’s legislative committee and director of Webster Public Library, illustrated the problem with a bestselling title: the retail ebook price is roughly $15 but a library license for the same title can cost…
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