#I just looked up one of the NYT bestsellers @ my local lib and there are 200 ebooks all checked out and 1200 people on the waitlist

[okayto]

To add to the above, the library will take steps if they can't afford things! For example, Seattle Public Library made news when it reduced the number of digital holds patrons could place because its patrons like digital reading so much. And I encourage people to read this article--the news isn't "oh no the library can't afford to buy all the books people want," it's framed as "look at what publishers are doing to libraries with these ridiculous prices and rules" and then mentions some possible future legislation. It's the sort of thing that helps build awareness and support.

The library knows its finances and will handle that, whether it's purchasing fewer digital resources, reducing the number of pay-per-use titles available, or other options, regardless of whether they announce it publicly (a la Seattle's own announcement or the NYPL's response to budget cuts) or implement it quietly.

Saw your post from the author who was happy people were using Libby. I'm torn as I understand the author is happy to get the license renewed, but libraries only get 26 loans on a digital license vs 60-80 loans on a physical copy. I love the convenience of digital books, but if taking out the physical copy is better for the library I'm willing to make the trip. Just looking for thoughts from others about it.

It depends on the license agreement the library has and its different for every one. Some renew annually, others renew by X amount of rentals. The library does what is best for them, and the more people use their services the more they can usually argue for more funding.

This is not universal, of course, but most of the librarians I know are ecstatic when people use their services.