Senate committee advances bill to let Minnesota libraries treat ebooks like owned copies After testimony from library officials and publisher representatives, the State and Local Government Committee advanced Senate File 36 85 as amended to general orders. Supporters said the bill will curb repeated, costly ebook licensing; opponents warned it could reduce publisher willingness to supply new releases.

A groundbreaking bill in Minnesota could revolutionize how libraries acquire ebooks and audiobooks, potentially freeing them from costly leasing models and allowing for perpetual ownership.

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#MN #MinnesotaLibraries #CitizenPortal #DigitalAccess #EbookLicensing #LibraryFunding

Committee advances bill aimed at curbing library ebook licensing terms after contested hearing The Elections, Finance and Government Operations Committee voted 8–4 to re‑refer House File 36‑98 — legislation to limit restrictive ebook/audiobook licensing for publicly funded libraries — to the Commerce, Finance and Policy Committee after proponent and opponent testimony highlighted competing claims over access, costs and legal risk.

A heated debate unfolds in Minnesota as lawmakers push for a bill that could revolutionize ebook and audiobook licensing for libraries, balancing access and costs against publisher rights.

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#MN #MinnesotaLibraries #CitizenPortal #DigitalAccess #EbookLicensing #LibraryFunding