What's Happening?
Follett Content and Mackin, companies known for their services to school libraries, are entering the public library market. This move comes after the collapse of Baker & Taylor, a major distributor in the library sector.
Britten Follett, CEO of Follett Content, has been planning this expansion for months, even before the failed acquisition of Baker & Taylor by ReaderLink. Follett Content, which collaborates with over 6,000 publishers, aims to provide shelf-ready children's and young adult titles to smaller and mid-sized libraries immediately, with plans to cater to larger systems by next year. Mackin, another key player, has launched MackinPublic to extend its services to public libraries, offering access to over 4.2 million titles from nearly 18,000 publishers.
Why It's Important?
The entry of Follett Content and Mackin into the public library market is significant as it fills the void left by Baker & Taylor's collapse. Public libraries, which rely heavily on distributors for their collections, now have new partners to support their needs. This transition is crucial for maintaining access to diverse and high-quality literature for communities across the U.S. The move also reflects a broader trend of diversification in the library services sector, potentially leading to more competitive pricing and improved service offerings. Libraries stand to benefit from increased access to a wide range of titles, enhancing their ability to serve patrons effectively.
What's Next?
Follett Content plans to expand its offerings to include adult titles in the future, further broadening its impact on public libraries. As both companies establish their presence in this new market, they may face challenges in scaling operations to meet the demands of larger library systems. Stakeholders, including publishers and library administrators, will likely monitor the transition closely to ensure it meets the needs of library patrons. The success of this expansion could encourage other companies to explore similar opportunities, potentially reshaping the landscape of library services.
Beyond the Headlines
The expansion into public libraries by Follett Content and Mackin may have long-term implications for the publishing industry. As these companies grow their influence in the library sector, they could drive changes in how publishers approach distribution and marketing strategies. Additionally, this development highlights the resilience and adaptability of library service providers in response to industry disruptions. The focus on children's and young adult literature underscores the importance of nurturing literacy and education, which are foundational to community development.
