WHEREAS, OWWL Library System and member libraries have a duty to ensure access to information for all;
WHEREAS, publishers are increasingly imposing restrictions on library purchases of new and popular materials in digital formats;
WHEREAS, libraries are typically required to pay exponentially higher prices for copies of books in digital formats than consumers; and
WHEREAS, these barriers are an impediment to the freedom to read, particularly for those who are most dependent on libraries, as well as a challenge to our long-held commitment to equity of access; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the OWWL Library System supports all digital content being made equally available to libraries without moratorium or embargo and at fair prices;
RESOLVED, that the OWWL Library System supports itself and member libraries raising public awareness of these issues; and
RESOLVED, that OWWL Library System supports itself and member libraries taking active steps to reduce the efficacy of publisher practices that are harmful to libraries and readers.
Last Updated by the OWWL Library System Board of Trustees on March 10, 2021