Title
Approve and authorize an Agreement between Monterey County on behalf of the Monterey County Free Libraries and OverDrive, Inc. for subscription to the Libby app platform (eBook's) and licensing content, for a term of three years, beginning February 16, 2026, to February 15, 2029 in the amount of $300,000
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
Approve and authorize an Agreement between Monterey County on behalf of the Monterey County Free Libraries and OverDrive, Inc. for subscription to the Libby app platform (eBook's) and licensing content, for a term of three years, beginning February 16, 2026, to February 15, 2029 in the amount of $300,000
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
The recommended action will enable Monterey County Free Libraries to continue receiving license and hosting services from OverDrive, Inc., for downloadable library materials and content such as eBooks and Audiobooks. OverDrive, Inc. has been the vendor for Monterey County Free Libraries for many years and is a leader in the field of proving e-content in an easy-to-use format for library patrons and staff. By agreeing to this contract, patrons will have continued access to the collections we have purchased over the years without disruption of services or the need to migrate or lose content. Other vendors have not shown the quantity or quality of content as that available from Overdrive. Staff and patrons are familiar with the product and the usage of downloadable content from Overdrive has increased dramatically during the time we first made the service available to patrons. Downloadable content is now considered an essential library service for many patrons who are not able to visit the library as often as they would like. In addition, OverDrive has an exclusive licensing agreement for books in the Amazon Kindle format; the most popular E-Reader. Patrons and Monterey County Free Library Staff are satisfied with its products. Over the course of the initial term, OverDrive has demonstrated improvement with
their service and selections. Monterey County Free Libraries has seen a significant increase in its popularity and desire to continue promoting its collection.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
This contract has been reviewed by Counsel as to form and legality but were and still are unable to approve the non-standard agreement terms that limit and/or waive vendor liability/warranty/indemnification that are carried over through the extended term. Risk Management, Auditor-Controller’s Office and Information Technology have reviewed this Renewal for terms and conditions.
FINANCING:
The recommended Agreement shall not to exceed the amount of $300,000, over a three year period. Funds have been included in the Library Budget to cover the cost of this contract. There is no additional cost to the County General Fund as Monterey County Free Libraries is its own Fund.
Prepared by: Jennifer Hansen, Services Officer, (831)883-7569
Approved by: Hillary Theyer, Library Director, (831)883-7566