Notes on Authors, Ebooks, and Libraries Dynamics

Early Writing Journey

• Giorgio's Passion for Writing: Developed a strong interest in writing from a young age, starting as soon as she could write.
  • Copied illustrations from picture books.
  • Rewrote stories creatively, changing plot points and dialogue.
• Example: Rewrote the book Flip Runs Away Again into a murder mystery where the colt was the murderer, signifying an early inclination towards complex narratives.

Publishing Career

• First Publication at Age 15: Kathy published her first serialized short story during her teenage years.
• Current Status as an Author: Although not on bestseller lists, she has written extensively, including short stories, poetry, and essays.
  • First Book: The Home for Wayward Clocks, published in 2010 at age 50, marking a significant milestone in her career.
  • Total Publications: Authored 13 books that are available across bookstores, audiobooks, and libraries.

Impact of Ebooks on Authors

• Ebooks and Royalties: The rise in borrowing ebooks from libraries has impacted Kathy’s royalties.
  • Observed a decline in income linked to the increased accessibility of ebooks.
  • Expressed feelings of conflict regarding libraries, which were previously seen as allies in promoting literacy.
• Library Borrowing Dynamics: Ebooks can be lent out more easily than physical books, which complicates the revenue model for authors.

Libraries vs. Publishers Dynamics

• Historical Relationship: The ecosystem between libraries and publishers was traditionally harmonious.
• Legal Framework: The right for libraries to lend books comes from the First Sale Doctrine in copyright law, allowing owners to share books without infringing copyright.
• Changes with Ebooks: The introduction of ebooks shifted the balance due to:
  • Ebooks having infinite lifespans, unlike physical books that wear out.
  • Ebooks can be lent to multiple users simultaneously, complicating revenue for authors and publishers.

Shift in E-book License Policies

• E-Book License Costs: By the mid-2010s, costs for ebook licenses for libraries surged, increasing from around $15 to $50 or $60.
  • Publishers began implementing time-limited licenses, adding financial strain on library budgets.
• Macmillan's Embargo:
  • Introduced an embargo preventing libraries from getting new e-book copies for the first eight weeks after release.
  • Libraries argued this violates their mission of providing access to information, leading to widespread protests.

Librarians' Response and Advocacy

• Protests Against Publishers: The American Library Association initiated petitions against Macmillan's practices, gathering over 160,000 signatures.
  • They delivered signed petitions to Macmillan's offices as a show of unity against the embargo policy.
• Continuing Advocacy: Librarians, led by figures like Michael Blackwell, seek laws to limit ebook price gouging and enforce equitable access to digital content.

Conclusion: Ongoing Tensions

• Divided Perspectives: The relationship between publishers, libraries, and authors has grown contentious, with differing views on access and revenue.
• Future of E-books: Despite the return of normalcy post-pandemic, concerns persist about the reinstatement of restrictive ebook policies.
• Shared Goals: All parties involved agree there should be a way forward that balances the interests of readers, authors, and libraries.