Macmillan Publishing has announced it would become the only major (Big 5) publisher to limit eBook lending for U.S. libraries. This means when a new book is released, Macmillan will allow library systems to purchase only one copy during an eight-week window.

This new licensing model is scheduled to begin November 1, 2019.

Currently, Digital Johnson County, a partnership between the Iowa City, Coralville and North Liberty public libraries, purchase multiple copies of popular eBooks so that more than one person can read it at the same time. For example, we have 22 copies of the eBook version of Michelle Obama’s “Becoming.” More than 400 area library users have checked out the eBook and 48 people are still waiting. Random House was the parent company who published “Becoming.” If that company had been Macmillan, the library would only be able to buy one copy for all three libraries. Melody has more information here. 

“Macmillan Publishers’ new model for library eBook lending will make it difficult for libraries to fulfill our central mission: ensuring access to information for all,” American Library Association (ALA) President Wanda Brown said. “Macmillan’s new policy is unacceptable.”

Millions of people now use digital content as their preferred or only access to books, music, and movies. Digital content is portable, accessible to people with print disabilities, available anywhere 24/7, and brokered by libraries to provide diverse options to our diverse communities. A core tenet of the public library mission is to provide free and equal access to information. Macmillan’s new model threatens this mission.

We join the ALA in denouncing this measure and calling for Macmillan Publishing to cancel the embargo and restore full access to its complete eBook catalog upon release to the public. Consider joining us and signing the American Library Association’s petition for #eBooksforAll.

The Iowa City Public Library will open at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 26, so individuals with autism can enjoy the Library in a calm and welcoming environment.

ICPL’s Special Access Browsing Hour is open to individuals of all ages on the autism spectrum, as well as their family members and caregivers.

October’s special access browsing hour will be a Spooktacular! Celebration. There will be a spooky-themed party that will include storytime, crafts, dancing and a movie.

Therapy animals will be on hand to wander through the Library, giving support and friendship. The Teen Center will be open for teens in 7^th through 12^th grades to play computer and video games. The Library will use natural lighting throughout the building to accommodate those with light sensitivity.

The Iowa City Public Library and Prairie Lights are pleased to welcome New York Times bestselling author Markus Zusak to the Library on Monday, October 21.

Zusak, author of The Book Thief and I Am the Messenger, will read from Bridge of Clay, which was released last year. He’ll also participate in a question and answer session.

Zusak’s reading will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. in Meeting Room A at the Library, with a signing afterwards. Prairie Lights will have copies of Bridge of Clay available for purchase at the program. Zusak will personalize an unlimited number of copies of Bridge Of Clay purchased at the event. Attendees are permitted to bring only one previously purchased book to the event to be signed.