In the course of selecting periodicals to review for Library Journal (see e.g. http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6709259.html?industryid=47384), I’ve run across an unusual case of controlled circulation. I don’t know what to make of it, so I’m interested in what you folks think.

Disney recently launched a new magazine that’s a benefit of membership in the Disney 23 club. It’s a large format, lushly produced magazine that many public library patrons would enjoy reading. I’ve seen the magazine in my local Barnes & Noble, so it’s available on newsstands, too. But Disney’s terms of use state subscriptions to Disney Twenty-three are for “individuals only (no corporations or other entities, associations or groups).” I e-mailed customer service and received confirmation that this includes libraries.

What do you make of this? Is it outrageous? Irksome? No big deal?

Steve Black

Reference, Serials, and Instruction Librarian

Neil Hellman Library

The College of Saint Rose

392 Western Ave.

Albany, NY 12203

(518) 458-5494

blacks@strose.edu