Primary Rights and the Inequalities of E-Book Access

Abstract

The e-book landscape is in a constant state of flux. More recent developments include new acquisition models, advances in platform usability and navigation, more lenient DRM provisions, and improvements to simultaneous user access licenses. However, what has not been addressed recently are the inequalities in e-book access for libraries across the world due to ‘primary rights.’ Territorial rights versus world rights is a licensing issue affecting libraries globally, and yet little is being done to address the inequalities of access. Join our discussion that will examine the ‘unavailable in your country’ message libraries often see alongside e-book purchase options, review documented inflation and deflation in e-book prices over time, and learn about the delayed or limited e-book offerings for global libraries. Explore how we can ensure equal access to electronic books for libraries across the globe. Hear perspectives from libraries inside and outside of the U.S., as well as publisher thoughts on the topic, including the continued drawbacks for library e-book access they believe will continue. Where do these discussions need to occur and who can we educate on the importance of including international access clauses in licenses or publishing agreements? Although this issue may not be widely known by librarians in the U.S., the exclusivity of electronic content based on the geographical location or status of a country is a sharp contrast to many of the inherent beliefs that are foundational to our profession.