Only 26 Checkouts!

Wow, this is big you guys.

HarperCollins has changed its policy on ebook checkouts for libraries.  Before, we were allowed unlimited checkouts of ebooks published by HarperCollins.  Now, after 26 checkouts, the license will expire and the library will be required to buy that ebook again if they want to circulate it.  In theory, an ebook can reach 26 checkouts in about a year.

They say this equals one year of use for a popular title.  But the thing is, many of our books are kept for a long time.  And we don't buy replacement copies unless the book is damaged beyond repair.

I mean, I completely understand that this is beneficial to the author, in theory.  But now, the library I work at can't buy HarperCollins ebooks anymore.  They can't afford to buy a new one every 26 checkouts.  Since we usually only have one or two copies of an ebook available for check out, it'll reach 26 pretty fast.  So the author loses anything they may have made with just one purchase of their ebook. (not to mention publicity for themselves)

I would understand if they said libraries had to re-buy them after say, 5 years, or even 3.  It's just so complicated when it comes to ebooks anymore.  I don't know what would be the best practice, and I don't know how I would feel or if my views would change if/when I become a published author.

I'm not bashing the decision, because I can see both sides of the argument.  It's just interesting, and right now since I work at the library, I'm seeing it through their eyes.

Here is the link to the article in The Library Journal.

What do you think about this?  Is this going to interfere with ebooks in libraries?  Will it affect the author?  Do you think the rest of the big houses will follow?