As library ebook lending practices come under greater scrutiny by large multinational publishers, this report explores how international libraries are balancing increasing demand for ebooks from library patrons with the needs of small- and medium-size publishers.

Designed to provide concrete information and strategies for Canadian publishers of all sizes who seek to increase their visibility and digital book sales in international markets, International Library Lending Practices for Digital Titles: A Guide for Canadian Publishers (2024) examines current trends and approaches in the digital library markets in France, Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.

Written by Brian O’Leary, the report provides tips on best practices in working with selected international libraries to ensure both the visibility of, and access to, Canadian titles (in English, French, or translation).

The report includes:

• An overview of digital library markets in France, Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.
• Tips for working with targeted international library organizations and understanding library lending and purchasing decisions.
• Strategies for improving the promotion and discoverability of your digital titles among international libraries.
• Guidance on how to manage multiple business models, local markets, and increasing business complexity.
• A comprehensive list of resources for publishers looking to break into one or more of the targeted markets.

About the Author

Brian O’Leary has been the Executive Director of the Book Industry Study Group (BISG) since 2016 and is the founder and principal of Magellan Media Consulting, which works with magazine, book, and association publishers to improve how they create, manage, and distribute content. O’Leary researches and writes extensively about issues affecting the publishing industry, including research reports on the use of metadata in the book industry supply chain, territorial rights in the digital age, and best practices in digital exports. He has written several reports on digital publishing for Livres Canada Books, including Digital Exports Revisited (2017) and Global Ebook Markets and Pricing (2019).

2024

36 pages

C$30

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This publication is supported by a contribution from Global Affairs Canada’s CanExport Associations program.