Wrong, a library buys access to a specific number of copies of an eBook, just because you think it's dumb doesn't alter the fact that this is the way it works... and it is done this way because they have yet to work out a fair way to handle actually reimbursing authors for their work so rather than not have eBook loans at all, libraries currently work within the existing model.
If you're such a hot computer tech then come up with a system that requires minimum to zero outlay by the libraries whilst tracking and controlling all loans and satisfying the needs of reimbursing authors... you'll make a fortune
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Originally Posted by screwballl
This is not a PHYSICAL PAPER copy of a book, it is electronic/digital code. A library buys access to the ebook and lends it out. They do not buy access to 5 ebooks, they buy access to computer code that is transferred with a limited timeframe of usage to an electronic device. Doesn't matter if it is 2 people or 200 people at a time, it is code, not paper.
It is not a matter of a limitation of copies because there is no physical media, it is all 1s and 0s. As a long time computer tech, I know how technology works, and a limitation like this has to be the dumbest thing anyone could think of.
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