The Book Acquisition Process for Public Libraries

Just like bookstores, public libraries generally acquire their print book inventory through the major book distributors such as Ingram and Baker & Taylor, using an online ordering system. Audiobooks are also acquired through these distributors, or through an audio-video distributor such as Midwest Tape, as library Executive Director Sarah Moore explains. For children's print books, a vendor may do an in-person pitch so that the collections development staff at the library can inspect the books a little closer. Libraries will occasionally receive advance review copies of books or preview boxes with a selection of books to choose from. For eBooks, Moore suggests your book be available through the online borrowing platforms that libraries use, such as OverDrive, the most widely used platform. Libraries pay for the use of this book app by their patrons and purchase select eBooks through the OverDrive website.

Share this story
Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn