10 Popular DRM-Free E-Books for Public Libraries

EBSCO’s collection development librarians have compiled sales and usage data to share some of the most popular frontlist DRM-Free titles. Here are 10 e-books that will greatly enhance any public library collection.

Architectural Styles: A Visual Guide by Margaret Fletcher and Robbie Polley
Published by Princeton University Press
ISBN: 9780691213781

This illustrated guide provides a comprehensive look at centuries of architectural styles from around the world. Key architectural elements are discussed in detail along with the history of notable building traditions. Architectural Styles serves not only as a valuable reference work for those in related fields, but also for patrons interested in learning some of the basics of architecture and design.

The COVID-19 Pandemic: The World Turned Upside Down by Hal Marcovitz
Published by ReferencePoint Press
ISBN: 9781678200190

This work chronicles the events of the COVID-19 pandemic, from its onset in late 2019 in Wuhan, China, through our gradual transition out of lockdown. Hal Marcovitz includes full color photos and personal accounts to illustrate how all aspects of life dramatically changed in the wake of the virus. The Covid-19 Pandemic is intended for a Young Adult audience (grades 6-12).

Fangirls: Scenes from Modern Music Culture by Hannah Ewens
Published by University of Texas Press
ISBN: 9781477322109

Hannah Ewens discusses the power of fandom and its importance to the music industry, leveraging her research on music history and anecdotes from hundreds of fans from across the globe. Ewens challenges the stereotype of the “hysterical” female fan and argues for the value of fangirl culture, highlighting fan devotion to modern icons such as Ariana Grande, Beyonce and Lady Gaga. Fangirls is a must-read for those interested in modern music or pop culture.

A Field Guide to Climate Anxiety: How to Keep Your Cool on a Warming Planet by Sarah Jaquette Ray
Published by University of California Press
ISBN: 9780520974722

Sarah Jaquette Ray’s work serves as a guidebook for Millennial and Generation Z readers who want to advocate for environmental justice and better climate policy. As a professor of environmental studies, Ray discusses the importance of her young readers resisting burnout and “eco-guilt” in their advocacy efforts. This book will appeal to all readers interested in the climate movement.

Growing Up Trans: In Our Own Words by Lindsay Herriot and Kate Fry
Published by Orca Book Publishers
ISBN: 9781459831384

Growing Up Trans features a collection of stories, poems, drawings, and letters from Canadian transgender youth. This compilation is an essential read for young transgender readers interested in reading firsthand experiences that may be similar to their own and for cisgender readers who are interested in better understanding the trans experience. This title is intended for a juvenile audience (Ages 9-12).

Growing Up Trans was a 2022 finalist for the Norma Fleck Award and a 2023 nonfiction nominee for the Yellow Cedar Award.

Policing Black Bodies: How Black Lives Are Surveilled and How to Work for Change by Angela J. Hattery and Earl Smith
Published by Rowman & Littlefield Publishing

ISBN: 9781538142554

Policing Black Bodies contributes to the ongoing conversation about disproportionate police brutality towards Black people and discusses systemic racism more broadly. The authors also specifically address how Black women and trans bodies are policed. This is a valuable read for those interested in Black Studies or the Black Lives Matter movement.

Recasting the Vote: How Women of Color Transformed the Suffrage Movement by Cathleen D. Cahill
Published by University of North Carolina Press
ISBN: 9781469659343

Published to coincide with the centennial of the ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment, Cathleen D. Cahill provides readers with a pivotal work about forgotten female activists of color that proved to be crucial in securing women’s right to vote. Recasting the Vote is an essential read for patrons interested in Women’s History and the women’s suffrage movement as well as Ethnic Studies.

Sporting Gender: The History, Science, and Stories of Transgender and Intersex Athletes by Joanna Harper
Published by Rowman & Littlefield Publishing
ISBN: 9781538112977

Sporting Gender weighs in on the discussion of transgender participation in professional sports. As a medical physicist and transgender athlete herself, Joanna Harper provides the reader with personal anecdotes and a comprehensive history of transgender and intersex athletes. Harper also uses her background to explain the science of gender diversity and its value in professional sports. This is an important read for anyone interested in the subject.

Unlikely Angel: The Songs of Dolly Parton by Lydia R. Hamessley
Published by University of Illinois Press
ISBN: 9780252052408

Unlikely Angel takes a unique and in-depth look into Dolly Parton’s influences, process, and success as a songwriter. Lydia R. Harmessley asserts that the country music icon deserves to be celebrated for more than just her vivacious public image. A valuable read for all country music lovers and fans of Dolly Parton.

Women’s Voices in Digital Media: The Sonic Screen from Film to Memes by Jennifer O'Meara
Published by University of Texas Press
ISBN: 9781477324455

Jennifer O’Meara’s work discusses the use of the female voice in various forms of digital media and its impact on perpetuating gender stereotypes. O’Meara cites numerous instances to argue her thesis, including ASMR videos, viral memes and GIFs, and modern virtual assistants, such as Siri and Alexa. This is a valuable read for those interested in media or women’s studies.

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