Millie's Library is an ebook service that allows users to rent and read books through a monthly subscription. It was founded by Seo Young-taek, the former CEO of Woongjin Thinkbig, in 2016. As of July 2023, it offers approximately 140,000 books, making it the leading monthly book service in South Korea [1].
In September 2021, KT Group acquired Millie's Library. It has a unique history of success as a subscription-based book service. While there have been previous fixed-rate services like Naver Books' Free Pass (2011-2018), they did not achieve significant success. However, Millie's Library has achieved meaningful success. Following its success, Ridibooks launched Ridiselect, YES24 launched Book Club, and Kyobo Bookstore launched SAM as subscription-based services [1].
There are four types of products: e-books only and e-books with access to Millie Original paper books. These products are further divided into monthly and annual payment cycles. The service targets not only book enthusiasts but also people who are not particularly fond of books. You can find traces of unconventional reading methods such as audiobooks and chatbooks. Some magazines are also available in Millie's Library for free if you subscribe to the monthly service. The library is not just a space where you can see the books you've read but also functions like a small blog centered around books [1].
Advantages of Millie's Library:
Unlimited access to various genres of e-books
Relatively affordable with a monthly subscription fee of 9,900 won
Discount benefits such as 5,000 won off through KT membership subscription and full free access for LG U+ VIP/VVIP Life Cok members
Free usage for six months at Chungcheongnam-do Education Office Integrated E-Library
Features like underlining text and easy note-taking make it easy to keep reading records
Ability to listen to audiobooks anywhere [4]
Disadvantages of Millie's Library:
Lack of the emotional experience of underlining and revisiting while reading physical books
Multitasking is possible while doing household chores or other activities but may result in decreased concentration abilities
Some users may find AI narration bothersome if it is not performed by voice actors [3]
Considering these advantages and disadvantages, individuals can make choices based on their personal preferences.
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