Why do libraries take books out of circulation?

When library staff pulls an item off the shelf to withdraw it because it’s been read so many times the cover is falling off, that book will more-than-likely get reordered. Some libraries are on a budget freeze and don’t withdraw any books for years.

How do libraries order their books?

Just like bookstores, public libraries generally acquire their print book inventory through the major book distributors such as Ingram and Baker & Taylor, using an online ordering system. Libraries pay for the use of this book app by their patrons and purchase select eBooks through the OverDrive website.

How do libraries procure books?

Libraries buy books through the same kinds of distributors bookstores use, like Ingram and Baker & Taylor. Depending on the size of the library system, they might even buy 50 to 100 copies or more of bestselling titles, especially when you count all formats: hardcover, large print, audio CD, and now e-book.

How do books end up in the library?

Donations are accepted by the library, but the majority of donated books end up at the Friends of the Library sales. Some donations make it to the collection, but they tend to be by local authors or, like with Amazon, books that are rare and can’t be acquired elsewhere.

Where do librarians order books from?

Libraries buy books through the same kinds of distributors bookstores use, like Ingram and Baker & Taylor. Those books count toward an author’s sales—a strong library being a big coup for an author.

How do librarians decide what books to buy?

For purchases, Librarians will mostly rely on reviews and their knowledge of the community they are buying for. Recently with e-books many libraries have been able to see what books their users are looking at and then purchase the most popular books.

How many copies of a book do libraries buy?

For popular titles, most libraries buy multiple copies to meet demand. Depending on the size of the library system, they might even buy 50 to 100 copies or more of bestselling titles, especially when you count all formats: hardcover, large print, audio CD, and now e-book.

How do libraries use technology to make decisions?

Libraries do use technology to help them make decisions on which books to both purchase and deaccession. For purchases, Librarians will mostly rely on reviews and their knowledge of the community they are buying for.

How do public libraries acquire books?

Sometimes libraries apply for grants to develop parts of their collections to support special interests and programs. Occasionally libraries acquire books through donation. Public libraries in the US often join regional consortia. Patrons can search the catalogs of multiple libraries in the larger group all at once.