Have you ever wondered why you have to wait for an eBook or eAudiobook? After all, digital books don't get lost or damaged like print books. The answer comes down to how libraries buy digital content.
Digital borrowing is more popular than ever. Markham Public Library (MPL) customers borrowed more than 1.1 million digital items through overdrive in 2025. As more people read and listen on phones, tablets, and eReaders, demand continues to grow. Many people are surprised to learn that libraries do not usually own eBooks and eAudiobooks. Instead, we purchase licenses from publishers. These licenses often cost more than a book purchased by a customer. For example, a reader might buy an eBook for about $13 and keep it forever, while a library may pay $55 or more for a license that expires after two years. Most digital licenses also allow only one borrower at a time. This means that if many people want the same title, holds can build up quickly.
Buying additional copies can help, but each new license comes with an added cost. When licenses expire, libraries must pay again to keep offering those titles. As more of the budget is spent renewing digital materials, there is less funding available for new eBooks, eAudiobooks, and physical items. We know waiting can be frustrating. Libraries are committed to providing digital access while using public funds responsibly. We are also working with library organizations and publishers to encourage fairer, more sustainable licensing options so everyone can continue to enjoy the digital collection.
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