Any published authors here? I have a quick question.

[Rattlethestars]

I love reading, always have. But life got in the way and I barely read for a good decade. However, I recently got back into it during the pandemic and definitely have the book bug again.

Our circumstances mean we're on a fairly strict budget, especially with the cost of living increases. Because of this, I've been using the library a lot over the last year. I'm on book 54 + 55 this year, most of which have been via the library (Borrowbox audio and physical copies). I'm incredibly lucky to have such wonderful libraries in my town and they've been a lifeline while I was going through a difficult time last year.

My question is: do published authors care if readers choose to borrow their books from the library instead or buying physical copies or ebook versions? Or do you just want people to read your books?

I feel guilty sometimes that I'm not able to buy them as I can only imagine the hard work that goes into writing. I do, however, always rate/review on Goodreads, plus a FB reading group I'm on, Especially if I've enjoyed a book.

If I try a new author and end up loving them, then I request the books as birthday/Christmas presents.

Also sorry for the ramble 😬

Instead of* buying

If your book is borrowed by a reader at a library on the current sample list, it will earn a small royalty for each loan. Plus the royalty from the library buying the book originally.

The sample list does change every few years and I have noticed my income varies quite a bit as my books seem more popular in certain areas.

I am always delighted to see people reading via library loans. And if you review the books, you are a star! Thank you.

Not an author but there is a thing authors can sign up for that means they do make a bit of money when someone borrows one of their books! Cannot for the life of me remember what it's called but there's that at least

It’s called PLR. And here’s the current list.

www.bl.uk/plr/library-sample

Not at all! I'm just thrilled someone wants to read my books, even if I earn nothing from it.

My friend is a successful children’s author and she’s just delighted if people read her books. She also gets a small amount of money each time her book is borrowed from the library.

I love receiving my annual PLR statement and seeing how many times each book's been borrowed. I'm very glad that people can access books this way (and it's a useful extra bit of money too).