Here’s a fact most people don’t know: Many American libraries have e-book systems in place that allow library users to download ebooks remotely onto their e-readers. Unfortunately, some of the largest American publishers will not allow libraries to offer e-books out of fear that library patrons will illegally steal and share those same e-books. In the meantime, public libraries will have to offer patrons a fraction of the big-name book titles on the market.

While Americans library patrons wait for publishers and libraries to figure things out, it looks like library systems in the United Kingdom may be a step closer to finding ways to offer library patrons e-books. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s culture minister Ed Vaizey will announce an independent review into ebook lending. Here’s more on this:

The DCMS said Vaizey had been “actively engaged” in finding a solution to issues around ebook lending for “some time”, and had held a number of meetings with library and publishing experts and other interested parties. “He is delighted that his proposals for an independent review of ebook lending are gathering cross-party support and looks forward to working with publishers, library professionals, local authorities and members from both sides of the House in taking these forwards. We expect to make a detailed announcement shortly,” said a spokesman.