Harper Collins limits eBook lending
Publishing giant Harper Collins has instructed US libraries to cease lending its eBooks after 26 loans – claiming that this is the average life expectancy of a printed book.
The arbitrary limitation comes despite eBook’s much vaunted hardiness and is intended to maintain the publisher’s margins by continually replenishing stock.
Librarians haven’t been keeping quiet on the issue however, pointing out that most titles (barring coffee spillage) can be borrowed anywhere up to 120 separate times and still be in good shape.
HarperCollins UK have refused to rule out extending the practice to UK shores.