Librarians at the Pioneer Library System in Oklahoma created the video embedded above, criticizing HarperCollins’ new policy of only allowing 26 checkouts of a digital eBook.
The video looks at five print books, showing the actual wear and tear on well-loved books with 25, 48, and 120 checkouts. We’ve included the complete list of books and checkouts below, counting the number of hypothetical eBook copies the library would have to buy of the same title.
Here’s more from the post: “replacement of books in libraries is based upon the condition of the book, not the number of times it has been checked out. It is not unusual for popular books to be checked out 100 times or more before the wear and tear of circulation takes its toll and the book has to be replaced or repaired.”
Print Books Examined in the Video
Neil Gaiman Coraline: 48 checkouts (second copy of hypothetical eBook)
Stuart Woods Swimming to Catalina: 120 checkouts (fifth copy of hypothetical eBook)
Debbie Macomber Sooner or Later: 25 checkouts (one more check out for hypothetical eBook)
Sharon Creech Ruby Holler : 39 checkouts (second copy of hypothetical eBook)
Janet Evanovich Metro Girl: 65 checkouts (third copy of hypothetical eBook)