Library Users Outraged as Audiobooks Remain Unavailable on Libby

URGENT UPDATE: Audiobook enthusiasts are expressing frustration as many desired titles remain unavailable on the Libby app, a situation recently highlighted by the Columbus Metropolitan Library in Ohio. In a viral social media video, librarian Cathy Mason reveals the underlying issues with Amazon’s exclusive rights to certain audiobooks, sparking outrage among users.

In a clip that has garnered over 50,000 likes, Mason explains that the library’s inability to purchase many popular audiobooks stems from their classification as Audible Exclusives. “It’s crushing,” Mason states, noting that the library cannot acquire these titles due to Amazon’s monopolistic control. “We’re stuck; there’s no way around it,” she adds, emphasizing the limitations libraries face.

The Libby app, which allows library cardholders to borrow digital books and audiobooks, is facing constraints that affect user experience. Mason details that libraries have limited options when it comes to acquiring content, particularly when it is tied to exclusive contracts. “Publishers have put governors, of sorts, on the licenses we buy,” she explains, outlining the complicated purchasing models that libraries must navigate.

Currently, libraries can purchase titles under various models: one allows for perpetual checkouts, while others are metered by time or checkouts. This means that popular audiobooks may require repeated purchases, putting additional pressure on library budgets. “There are titles I would buy over and over again, but I can’t because Audible has the exclusive contract,” Mason laments.

The issue has ignited a wave of backlash from users on social media. Comments such as “Amazon exclusives shouldn’t exist” and “I’m not gonna pay double and give Amazon some money” highlight the growing discontent with the monopolization of audiobook access. One user even suggested that Audible’s practices may violate the Americans with Disabilities Act, calling for legal challenges against these exclusives.

As frustrations mount, many users express their unwavering support for libraries. “I love her giving us the library tea!” one user exclaimed, acknowledging Mason’s efforts to clarify the situation. The community’s concerns reflect a broader sentiment about the importance of libraries as essential public resources.

Libby is just one application through the OverDrive umbrella, which also includes Sora for children’s content and Kanopy for streaming films and TV shows. Additionally, many library systems offer the Hoopla app, which allows users to check out audiobooks, music, and comics—though it operates independently of OverDrive.

As the situation develops, library users are encouraged to voice their concerns and reach out to local libraries for more information on digital content access. The struggle for equitable access to audiobooks continues, and the conversation around exclusivity is only gaining momentum.

For those passionate about library services, this issue is critical, as it impacts not only the availability of audiobooks but also the larger conversation about access to knowledge and resources in a digital age.