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HF 3698

Certain terms in libraries' electronic book and digital audiobook license agreements or contracts prohibited.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ned Carroll and 16 co-sponsors

Minnesota bill prohibits restrictive licensing terms in library e-book and audiobook agreements to expand public digital access and library preservation rights.

Authors added Fischer and Smith
#consumerprotection #contracts #libraries
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Bill Summary · HF 3698

Legislative bill overview

HF 3698 prohibits certain restrictive terms in electronic book and digital audiobook licensing agreements that libraries use. The bill aims to prevent publishers from imposing conditions that limit libraries' ability to lend, preserve, or access digital materials they have purchased or licensed.

Why is this important

Libraries are foundational public institutions providing free access to information, but digital licensing agreements increasingly restrict what libraries can do with materials compared to physical books. This bill addresses a real tension between publisher profit models and public library missions, potentially affecting millions of patrons' access to reading materials and libraries' ability to serve their communities effectively.

Potential points of contention

  • Publisher concerns: Publishers may argue that restrictions protect their intellectual property and revenue streams, especially for newly released titles, and that removing these terms could undercut their business models
  • Definition clarity: The bill's specific language matters greatly—what counts as a "prohibited term" could be ambiguous and lead to disputes over whether certain standard licensing practices are now illegal
  • Market impact: Publishers might respond by raising licensing costs, limiting titles available to libraries, or shifting to more restrictive licensing models that technically comply with the law while achieving similar restrictions

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

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