The Hidden Costs of Digital Library Materials -- Kendall Young Library

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In today’s digital age, libraries are working hard to provide access to eBooks, audiobooks, and streaming content alongside traditional print materials. Digital resources are a convenient and valuable service, but what many people don’t realize is that they come at a significantly higher cost to libraries than physical books.

Libraries Lease, Not Own

Unlike physical books, which libraries purchase once and lend out indefinitely, digital materials are typically leased for a limited period or a set number of checkouts. Publishers control the pricing and lending terms, often charging libraries much more than the cost of a physical book.

For example, while you might buy an eBook for $10-$15, a library could pay $50 or more for a single digital copy—and that copy may expire after two years or 26 checkouts. This means libraries must repurchase popular titles repeatedly, straining their budgets.

The Cost of Digital Checkouts

One platform many library users love is Hoopla, which offers instant access to eBooks, audiobooks, movies, and more. However, unlike other digital services, Hoopla charges libraries per checkout rather than a flat fee. Each time you borrow an item, the library pays an average of $2.40. This may not seem like much, but when hundreds of patrons are checking out materials each month, the costs quickly add up.

How You Can Help

We love that our patrons are making use of digital resources, and we want to continue offering these services. However, due to rising costs, we ask for your help in being mindful of your digital checkouts.

Here’s how you can support your library:

✅ Look for the title on Libby first before checking Hoopla.
✅ Only borrow what you plan to read, watch, or listen to.
✅ Return items as soon as you're done so others can access them.

By making small changes, you help ensure that we can continue providing access to both digital and physical materials for everyone.

Thank you for being a part of our library community and for supporting the resources that make reading, learning, and entertainment more accessible for all! If you have any questions, please email us at [email protected]. ❤️

📚💡 Pro Tip: Before using Hoopla, check Libby to see if the title is available! Libby operates on a different model, helping us stretch our budget while still getting you the books you love. ❤️📖

Originally posted by Kendall Young Library via Locable