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SF 3685

Certain libraries' electronic book and digital audiobook license agreements or contracts terms prohibition

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michael Kreun and 4 co-sponsors

Minnesota bill prohibits libraries from accepting digital book licensing terms that restrict lending, preservation, or long-term access comparable to physical books.

Second reading
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Bill Summary · SF 3685

Legislative bill overview

SF 3685 prohibits libraries from entering into electronic book and digital audiobook licensing agreements that contain certain restrictive terms. The bill targets provisions that limit libraries' ability to lend, preserve, or access digital materials on equitable terms comparable to physical books.

Why is this important

Libraries currently face significant restrictions from publishers and distributors on digital lending—including expiration dates on licenses, lending limits, and inability to permanently own digital collections. This bill directly addresses the "ebook problem" where libraries pay recurring fees for access they cannot permanently maintain, impacting public access to reading materials and library budgets.

Potential points of contention

  • Publisher/vendor opposition: Major publishers and digital distributors argue restrictive licensing protects their intellectual property and compensates authors; they may claim the bill makes digital lending economically unviable
  • Defining prohibited terms: The bill's effectiveness depends on precise language identifying which contract restrictions are banned—vague definitions could create enforcement challenges or unintended loopholes
  • Market availability: If major vendors withdraw from library markets rather than comply, libraries could lose access to popular digital titles, potentially worsening rather than improving public access
  • Implementation timeline: Existing contracts may not align with new requirements, creating transition costs and legal disputes during implementation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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