Why can't nonresidents use library ebooks?
Answer
Unfortunately, ebooks are much more expensive for libraries as compared to private citizens (often 3 - 10 times as much). Filling just a few requests a year for a patron may cost the library hundreds of dollars, which is not recovered by PLAC or other nonresident fees. As librarians, we love giving access to as many patrons as possible, but as an entity with fiduciary responsibility to our library taxing district, we have a duty to provide the best possible service to our resident taxpayers.
According to the state library and Indiana legal counsel, libraries are not required to lend ebooks under PLAC rules. Please reference Indiana Code 4-23-7.1-5.1.