In 2019, 76% of the audiobook licenses purchased by libraries were perpetual. By 2024, however, 64% of the licenses purchased were metered. A metered license is one that expires after a set period—typically 12 or 24 months—rather than being owned indefinitely. In this episode, Ann and Jeff discuss how this shift in licensing models affects cost per circulation, return on investment (ROI), and the overall composition of a library’s audiobook collection.

What are the hosts reading? 

Jeff is reading Malcolm Gladwell's Revenge of the Tipping Point, which is available through Hoopla Flex.  Ann is enjoying the mystery, At Loggerheads by Kristen Ness.

Related links 

Navigating the Digital Publishing Landscape (Blog Article)

Library Insights Summit 2025 

2025 American Library Association Conference