The latest ALIA eBook survey results have been released. This is the second survey undertaken by ALIA investigating the uptake of eBooks in Australian public libraries. The comparative analysis between the 2013 & 2014 surveys provides an interesting insight into the fluid digital content landscape. Some of the key findings of the report include:
- Nearly all Australian public libraries now lend ebooks; up from 69% a year ago to 97% in 2014.
- On average, ebooks make up 5–6% of a public library’s collection.
- In 53% of public libraries, ebooks account for less than 1% of loans, and in almost all, they account for less than 5% of loans.
- 60% of libraries use two or more ebook providers, up from 33% in 2013. The three most popular providers are Bolinda, Overdrive and Wheelers.
- Between half and two thirds of libraries are less than satisfied or not satisfied with the choice of bestsellers, books by Australians, popular authors and overall content.
- 71% of libraries have ebooks in their catalogue but less than a quarter of libraries (23%) are able to offer ebooks direct from their catalogue.
- More libraries appear to be loaning ereading devices — 23% in 2014, up from 19% in 2013.
- Skills in public libraries have remained at a similar level, with two in every five libraries saying most or all of their staff were conversant with ebooks and ereaders.
The complete report, A comparison of ebooks and elending in Australian Public Libraries 2013 v 2014, is available for download on the ALIA website,