Current Happenings

What's new at the library (updated October 2025)

Library Supplier Baker & Taylor is Going Out of Business

How does this affect the Buchanan District Library?

This week Baker & Taylor, the largest distributor of books to public and academic libraries and schools, has announced that they will be ceasing operations. Baker & Taylor has been the primary book supplier for the Buchanan District Library for many years. The closing was abrupt and unexpected, and has left BDL and many other libraries scrambling to figure out what comes next.

As a library wholesaler, Baker & Taylor enabled us to stretch our budget and get the most value out of every dollar we spend. They also gave us access to tools to help with purchasing and cataloging, making the most of library staff's time as well. While we can order some items from Amazon as we establish contracts with other suppliers, Amazon does not offer the same tools or value.

As Amazon and other vendors step up to fill the gap left by Baker & Taylor's closing, we anticipate that there may be supply issues across the board. We may be adding fewer materials to our collection for a while, and new releases and requests may take longer to arrive during this time. We may also have to adjust the list of Reserve Express authors that patrons can subscribe to.

We understand that this may be frustrating; we are frustrated as well. Please be patient with us and other libraries as we move forward from Baker & Taylor and establish contracts with new suppliers.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.