How to Distribute Ebooks to OverDrive & Public Libraries
Reach institutional buyers. Learn library distribution systems (OverDrive, Hoopla), pricing models, and catalog submissions.
Eleanor Vance
Head of Digital Production
"Public libraries buy millions of ebooks every year. Getting your book stocked in library catalogs (like OverDrive or Hoopla) expands your reach and generates consistent royalty income."
Core Key Takeaways
- Navigating Library Licensing Models
- Submitting Metadata to Library Wholesalers
- Pitching Your Book to Local Libraries
1. Navigating Library Licensing Models
Libraries buy books using different licensing models: single-user licenses (one copy per reader) or pay-per-use licenses (Hoopla).
- Set library pricing higher than retail pricing (typically 2-3x).
- Distribute via wide partners like Draft2Digital or Ingram.
- Track sales reports to monitor institutional purchases.
2. Submitting Metadata to Library Wholesalers
Ensure your metadata matches wholesale registry requirements, listing correct BISAC codes so librarians can index your book.
From Manuscript to Global Bookstores & Libraries
Get developmental CMOS editing, bespoke cover design, multi-format distribution, and launch marketing tailored for ambitious authors.
3. Pitching Your Book to Local Libraries
Visit local libraries with your pitch sheet. Librarians prioritize purchasing books from local authors or those with local hooks.
The Takeaway
Library distribution expands your public reach. Golden Ivory Publishing manages catalog registry setups for wide distribution.
From Manuscript to Global Bookstores & Libraries
Get developmental CMOS editing, bespoke cover design, multi-format distribution, and launch marketing tailored for ambitious authors.
Related Guides & Tutorials
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Formatting Clickable Indexes: EPUB Typesetting Rules
Indexes look messy on e-readers? Learn how to code clickable index hyperlinks and anchor references for EPUB.
Public Library Book Acquisition: How OverDrive, Baker & Taylor, and Ingram Wholesale Work
Unlock the lucrative institutional library market. Discover how collection development librarians evaluate titles, configure OverDrive and Baker & Taylor wholesale, and secure LCCN cataloging.