The Library E-book Pricing Fairness Amendment Act of 2025 aims to enhance access to electronic literary materials for residents of the District of Columbia by prohibiting the District of Columbia Public Library (DCPL) from entering into or renewing licensing agreements with publishers that impose restrictive terms. The bill addresses issues such as inflated costs, limitations on the number of loans, and restrictions on the Library's ability to preserve electronic materials. It is designed to ensure that libraries can provide fair access to eBooks and audiobooks, which have seen a significant increase in demand, while also aligning with similar legislative efforts in other jurisdictions.
The legislation includes a provision that it will only take effect once ten other jurisdictions with a combined population of at least 50 million have enacted similar laws. This strategic approach aims to create a national framework for fair electronic access and reduce the risk of legal challenges or market isolation for the District. The bill outlines specific prohibitions on contract terms that limit public access, such as excessive pricing and restrictions on loaning practices, thereby promoting equitable access to literature and knowledge in an increasingly digital world.