Even though the library offers thousands of books and audiobooks in both physical and digital formats, there are always a few titles that become so popular it seems everyone wants to read them at the same time.
Right now, one of those titles is Theo of Golden by Allen Levi. Originally self-published in 2023, the novel gained momentum through word of mouth and has since become a New York Times bestseller and a hot book club pick. At the River Forest Public Library, print books are always in-demand, and we are happy to buy multiple copies to ensure that no one has to wait too long. Digital collections, however, present a unique challenge—largely because of the high cost of eBooks and eAudiobooks for libraries.
At first glance, digital pricing doesn’t seem so bad. The Audible version of Theo of Golden costs $15.74, and the Kindle edition is $11.99. That's not so bad, right? Unfortunately, those are retail prices for individuals—not the prices libraries pay.
Libraries must purchase digital titles through vendors like OverDrive, which delivers content to patrons via the Libby app. Right now, the eAudiobook of Theo of Golden costs $89.99 - and that is just a 24-month license. In other words, you can purchase the Audible version to keep forever, and we can rent the eAudiobook from Overdrive for two years for $89.99, then it’s gone.
Currently, 45 River Forest patrons are waiting for the eAudiobook. Purchasing 11 copies would cost the library $989.89. For that same amount, an individual could buy 62 Audible copies. And because publishers are gradually phasing out audiobooks on CD, that format is not an option.
The eBook version presents a similar issue. It costs $59.99 per licensed copy, meaning 11 copies would total $659.89—roughly the price of 55 Kindle editions or 26 hardcover books. Those hardcover books could remain on our shelves for decades and be checked out thousands of times.
We know our patrons love reading in all formats, and we are committed to making books as accessible as possible while also being responsible stewards of your tax dollars. Fortunately, library advocates across Illinois have taken notice, and there is currently legislation moving forward. The Digital Protection Act--Illinois House Bill 5236 "aims to prevent publishers from imposing unfair restrictions on libraries when licensing eBooks, digital audiobooks, and other electronic literary materials." You can find out the latest on this bill by visiting the Illinois Library Association's Ready, Set, Advocate eBook legislation page.
This week is National Library Week and today is Take Action for Libraries Day. What can you do to help? Keep using your library! Borrowing books--especially eBooks and eAudiobooks--will help us continue to advocate for funding. And while you wait for highly coveted titles, ask one of our friendly librarians to recommend a similar title, one of their favorites, or just a good book for you to enjoy. We have plenty of those in all formats!
