In a word, cautiously, but we won't be rushing to buy Warner titles for the time being! 

We gather that Blockbuster et al. may be boycotting Warner titles (though presumably their motives are different!).  If so this might have one or more of several effects - including, presumably, a cave-in by Warner and/or increased demand on libraries (unless we go for a boycott too - is this ethical/legal, I wonder?).

Like Lincs' supplier, ours is taking the matter up with Warner.  Unlike Suffolk's we certainly haven't received any assurances that it doesn't apply to us.

One specific question which I don't recall seeing raised (let alone answered) anywhere yet: has anyone discovered the position vis à vis reissues and new purchases of older material?  Presumably no one is going to try to stop us lending retail versions already in stock, but what about back-catalogue purchases?  And how are "they" going to tell the difference when the video police come to visit?!

Chris Hall
Bibliographical Services Librarian
Corporation of London Libraries
Email:[log in to unmask]
Tel: 020 7332 1075

-----Original Message-----
From: Gary Porter [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: 02 August 2002 13:50
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Warner Video

As of 15 July, all Warner Home Video products will be
released,simultaneously, as rental and retail versions. As a result of
this decision Warner have advised that all rental outlets, including
Public Libraries, will have to buy the more expensive rental version
(approx £37). Many/most? local authorities only buy the cheaper 'sell
through' titles, so the decision clearly has implications for video
budgets and our ability to cover costs through income generation.

Our supplier is taking the matter up with Warner, to see if libraries
can be exempted from this new policy. Just wondering how other folk are
responding to this move by Warners?

Many thanks

Gary

Gary Porter

Area Service Manager - Resources
Tel 01529 414770

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