A More Detailed Look at the Library Boycott of Macmillan EBooks

Carmi Parker, ILS Administrator for Whatcom County Library System, has announced that two more libraries have joined the boycott, bringing the total up to 79 systems. The new libraries are Anoka County (MN) with 8 branches serving a population of 340,000 and Merrimack Valley Library Consortium with 36 branches serving 779,000.

Ms. Parker and Ms. Coan have prepared a more detailed look at the results of the boycott, which may be found here. While the numbers on the effect of the boycott remain the same, the expansion includes much more information on patron responses, including many positive interactions with library users who have seen library notice of Macmillan’s practices or any of the numerous media articles. Tips for communicating to staff and patrons are also included, with examples such as Fairfax County LIbary’s (VA) information web page. The authors discuss ways to talk with stakeholders, such as library trustees, referencing ULC’s Fair E-Book and E-Audiobook Lending for Libraries. FAQs include information on ALA’s stand, how smaller libraries might help, and the WHY of the boycott (which might seem counterintuitive to libraries’ usual desire to provide access), while an Appendix explains the various types of boycotting that different libraries are trying.

For those interested in the effects of the boycott, details about it, and libraries’ efforts to ensure access, a must read!