Why can't I donate ebooks to the library?

[Nevada]

Given that there are a large number of authors and industry professionals here, I thought I would see if anyone has an answer for my question. When I asked my local library how I could donate some of my ebooks, I was told that it isn't possible to donate ebooks.

Why can't I donate ebooks to the library?

Also, I found out that ebooks are purchased by the library on a per use license meaning that they only get to lend a book 20 or 50 or whatever amount of times before they have to repurchase it.

Neither of these limitations apply to paper books and it certainly hasn't been the standard. So, what gives? Anyone know?

[L.]

I think the answer to the first question is tied up in the second question. In order to lend ebooks, libraries have to purchase said books in a particular way. That means they have to buy the books themselves rather than have one purchased for them by a third party and donated. A way around that would be to donate the money to the library and ask that it be spent on ebooks. I don't think libraries have to honor that request, but I would imagine they would anyway. Also, if you have particular ebooks in mind, go to your local library's web page and request them. Most librarians I know take book requests very seriously, and they're always on the lookout for good deals on ebooks to fill out their virtual shelves. Oftentimes that means finding indie authors and up-and-comers very few folks have heard about, as their books tend to be cheaper than the top list names.

This is a good topic. I don't know if my answer is correct, and if not, I hope someone will come along and correct me.

[Emma]

Because when you buy an ebook, you are paying for your own use of the book.
Giving an ebook, sold to you under the understanding that it was for your own use, to a library would remove the publisher's rights to be paid for the work, rather like DVD or music piracy.