Abstract
E‐book rights advocacy efforts began nearly from the moment the format appeared. The topics have evolved over time but significant issues and the need for ongoing discussion and negotiation remain. To this end, Macalester College published an E‐Book Advocacy Statement in 2013. Since then several libraries have signed on. Most importantly, productive conversations with e‐book providers and vendors have ensued. These conversations have led to a better understanding of the library, publisher, and e‐book provider points of view as well as helped strengthen library/vendor relationships that are rooted in a willingness to deeply engage on these topics while appreciating one another’s knowledge, needs, and realities that may serve as a launching point for positive change. The paper summarizes the statement’s genesis and an open dialog between Macalester and a representative from Ingram’s MyiLibrary discussing the terms of the statement from both points of view. Even though the parties do not agree on all issues, and the library is not actively purchasing e‐books, both have committed to continually learning together so that in time we will both be able to fully meet the needs of our organizations and communities.
E-Book Rights: Advocacy in Action
E‐book rights advocacy efforts began nearly from the moment the format appeared. The topics have evolved over time but significant issues and the need for ongoing discussion and negotiation remain. To this end, Macalester College published an E‐Book Advocacy Statement in 2013. Since then several libraries have signed on. Most importantly, productive conversations with e‐book providers and vendors have ensued. These conversations have led to a better understanding of the library, publisher, and e‐book provider points of view as well as helped strengthen library/vendor relationships that are rooted in a willingness to deeply engage on these topics while appreciating one another’s knowledge, needs, and realities that may serve as a launching point for positive change. The paper summarizes the statement’s genesis and an open dialog between Macalester and a representative from Ingram’s MyiLibrary discussing the terms of the statement from both points of view. Even though the parties do not agree on all issues, and the library is not actively purchasing e‐books, both have committed to continually learning together so that in time we will both be able to fully meet the needs of our organizations and communities.