DEPARTMENT: Library
FILE TYPE: Regular Information
TITLE
title
Update On Impact Of Library Digital Book Pricing
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PURPOSE/ACTION REQUESTED
Provide the committee with an update on the impact of digital book pricing.
SUMMARY
Public Libraries lease eBooks and digital audiobooks under limited terms, typically for two years or 26 checkouts and often pay three to four times the consumer price for a title.
Court decisions put publishers in control of pricing and licensing terms. In 2025, one quarter of Dakota County Library’s over 5 million checkouts were digital books. The library faces increasing demand and costs and customers experience longer wait times and limited access.
RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Information only; no action requested.
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EXPLANATION OF FISCAL/FTE IMPACTS
☒ None ☐ Current budget ☐ Other
☐ Amendment Requested ☐ New FTE(s) requested
RESOLUTION
body
Information only; no action requested.
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PREVIOUS BOARD ACTION
None.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment: Library Pricing Sheet
Attachment: Presentation Slides
BOARD GOALS
☒ Thriving People ☐ A Healthy Environment with Quality Natural Resources
☐ A Successful Place for Business and Jobs ☐ Excellence in Public Service
CONTACT
Department Head: Jennifer Reichert Simpson
Author: Jennifer Reichert Simpson