The Kansas Digital Library Consortium was formed in 2005 when, on behalf of libraries across Kansas, the State Library entered into an agreement with OverDrive so that Kansas libraries might have an efficient and cost-effective way to offer digital content to Kansas residents. Recently many changes have occurred which impact this Consortium, including a new contract offered by OverDrive and, most recently, the announcement that Harper Collins digital titles (purchased after March 7) will expire after being downloaded 26 times.
The pricing model put forth by OverDrive in a contract renewal proposal (in late 2010) was unsustainable because the Application Service and License Fee Schedule showed a 100% increase each year for 4 years. This contract has been withdrawn by OverDrive. The State Library (SLK) is continuing to negotiate contract terms with OverDrive. It seems likely that the SLK and OverDrive will come to a mutually beneficial agreement so that the Kansas Digital Library Consortium will continue to exist and will continue to offer digital content to Kansas residents. As this process progresses, I will send you updates.
Regarding the Harper Collin’s decision: because of the potential negative impact of the decision of Harper Collins publishers on customer service, the State Library of Kansas has placed a moratorium on purchasing Harper Collins titles. There are many issues around the “expiration of a title after 26 check-outs,” two of which are of immediate interest, i.e., how patron holds and MARC records will be handled upon expiration of a title. Until these and other issues are addressed, the SLK moratorium will remain in place.
I believe that this is in keeping with the desire of the consortium to provide the best customer service possible. Thank you.
Best wishes,
Jo Budler, State Librarian