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Iowa libraries‘ role in serving communities in the digital era

Libraries have long been a cornerstone of communities, providing access to books, resources, and a space for learning and engagement. In recent years, the shift towards digital content has presented both opportunities and challenges for libraries as they strive to meet the evolving needs of their patrons. One such challenge is the high cost associated with providing digital copies of books to library users.

Anne Mangano, collections services coordinator at the Iowa City Public Library, sheds light on the financial burden libraries face when acquiring digital editions of books. Licensing agreements for platforms like Libby can be expensive, with libraries paying significantly more for digital copies compared to what individual consumers would pay on commercial platforms like Amazon or Apple books. This discrepancy in pricing can make it challenging for libraries to provide a wide range of digital content while staying within budget constraints.

Furthermore, the restrictions placed on digital copies add another layer of complexity for libraries. Once a digital copy is purchased, it can only be accessed by one user at a time, similar to a physical book. Additionally, libraries may have to repurchase popular titles or after a certain number of checkouts or time has passed, further adding to the cost. These limitations are set by publishers, who aim to incentivize individual purchases over library borrowing.

Platforms like Hoopla offer a different model, where libraries are charged each time a patron checks out a title. While this eliminates wait times for users, it can lead to unpredictable costs for libraries, with individual checkouts ranging from $0.99 to $3.99. The Iowa City Public Library had to make the difficult decision to remove e-books and audiobooks from Hoopla that cost more than $1.99 to manage their expenses effectively.

Despite these challenges, libraries are finding innovative ways to engage with their patrons in the digital realm. The rise of platforms like TikTok has given libraries a new avenue to connect with readers. The Des Moines Public Library, for example, has leveraged TikTok to share book recommendations and create a virtual community of readers. By sharing curated book lists and engaging with popular trends like „BookTok,“ libraries are fostering a sense of community and encouraging reading in new ways.

In the face of increasing challenges, library advocates like Sam Helmick, the new president of the American Library Association, are championing the importance of intellectual freedom and access to information. With the recent wave of book bans in some states, libraries are at the forefront of defending the right to access diverse and inclusive literature. Helmick emphasizes the role of libraries in fostering community conversation and engagement, highlighting the value of publicly-funded institutions in providing essential services to all members of society.

As libraries navigate the complexities of the digital age, they continue to adapt and innovate to meet the needs of their patrons. By balancing financial constraints with a commitment to intellectual freedom and community engagement, libraries play a vital role in promoting literacy, access to information, and a sense of belonging for all individuals.

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