The Digital Shelf
A Publishing & Library Forum

A free webinar series bringing together libraries, publishers, and industry leaders for honest conversations about the future of digital content.

Presented by Palace in collaboration with Lyrasis, ReadersFirst, and COSLA, The Digital Shelf creates space for practical dialogue around equitable access, sustainable models, AI, censorship, and the evolving library ecosystem.

Shared challenges. Shared solutions.

Upcoming Events

March 26, 2026

1:00 PM EDT

Publisher Lightning Round

This high-energy "lightning round" session will feature rapid-fire updates from 5-8 major publishers, including representatives from the Big 5 and other major publishers that have never before entered into dialogue with libraries. Each publisher will highlight their most exciting upcoming titles, digital content trends, and their feelings toward libraries in short, fast-paced segments. The session will conclude with a brief, moderated Q&A, providing libraries with critical, timely market intelligence for collection development.

Learning Outcomes

  • Identify Key Titles: List major upcoming book and audiobook releases to prioritize for immediate collection development.
  • Analyze Industry Trends: Describe current shifts in digital content and licensing strategies from "Big 5" and newly participating publishers.
  • Evaluate Publisher Outlooks: Summarize the latest strategic attitudes major publishers hold toward public library partnerships.
  • Inform Acquisition Strategy: Apply timely market intelligence to optimize local library digital spending and marketing.
  • Clarify Access Terms: Use the Q&A segment to resolve specific questions regarding content availability and licensing terms.

Presenters

Partners