Urgent Update: Librarians Reveal Why Many Audiobooks Are Missing

UPDATE: Audiobook enthusiasts using the Libby app are facing frustration as many popular titles remain unavailable. Recent insights from the Columbus Metropolitan Library in Ohio reveal the challenges posed by Amazon’s exclusive ownership of certain audiobooks, sparking outrage among users.

In a video that has garnered over 50,000 likes on social media, librarian Cathy Mason, the library’s Digital Buying Lead, explains the complexities of audiobook licensing. “It’s crushing; they want to listen to an audiobook, but the library cannot buy the audiobook because it’s an Amazon exclusive,” Mason states in the clip, emphasizing the dire situation for library patrons.

The Libby app provides cardholders access to a variety of digital content, but Mason highlights that many sought-after audiobooks are simply out of reach due to licensing restrictions. “We’re stuck, there’s no way around it,” she adds, pointing out that even authors may be unaware of the exclusive contracts in place.

Mason elaborates on the purchasing constraints libraries face, explaining that publishers impose strict licensing models. “One model allows us to buy 10 copies forever, while others are metered by time or checkouts,” she notes. This means that once a digital copy is checked out, it must be returned before another patron can access it, similar to physical books.

The emotional impact of this situation resonates with library users. Many expressed their frustration in the comments, with one user stating, “Amazon exclusives shouldn’t exist. The monopolization of knowledge shouldn’t exist.” Another remarked, “If Libby doesn’t have it, I’m not gonna read it,” expressing their commitment to utilizing library resources rather than paying for Amazon services.

Mason’s insights have ignited a conversation about the implications of such exclusivity, with some suggesting potential legal challenges regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act. “Audible Exclusives need to be challenged in court as an ADA violation,” one commenter wrote.

The overwhelming support for Mason and the library system highlights the community’s desire for accessible knowledge. “I love her giving us the library tea! It’s really sad Amazon wouldn’t allow libraries to buy their exclusives,” another user commented, reinforcing the importance of libraries as vital community resources.

The Libby app is part of the OverDrive family, which also includes other platforms like Sora for children’s content and Kanopy for streaming films. Some library users may also access Hoopla, a service offering audiobooks, music, and comics without the limitations imposed by OverDrive.

As the demand for digital content continues to rise, library patrons are encouraged to reach out to their local libraries for further information on available resources and potential workarounds.

This urgent issue underscores the need for dialogue about digital access and the rights of public libraries. For now, the spotlight remains on how exclusive contracts can limit the availability of essential resources for communities everywhere. Stay tuned for further developments on this pressing topic.