Thousands on waiting list to read "Fifty Shades of Grey" from Cincinnati Public Library

CINCINNATI - More than 2,000 people are on the waiting list at the Cincinnati-Hamilton County Public Library to read the number one New York Times Best Seller book.

"Fifty Shades of Grey" is flying off book shelves across the country.

"On the print copies there are over 1300 holds which means 200 people have it checked out and there's another 1300 actually 1325 people waiting for the book," said Greg Edwards of the Cincinnati/Hamilton County Public Library.

Many people are buying the e-copy for their digital readers so they do not have to be seen purchasing the controversial book. Yes, the book is reportedly that steamy, but it's those elements that is making thousands of readers into fans of British author E.L. James.

There are three titles in the series beginning with "Fifty Shades of Grey," "Fifty Shades Darker," and "Fifty Shades Freed."

The Cincinnati Public Library says there is a six-month waiting list to read the book that centers around a relationship between a virginal college student and a wealthy young business man.

"I think initially we bought like 40 copies and they certainly hit the shelves and went out very quickly," Edwards said.

However, if you do not want to wait to borrow the book from the library you can purchase a paperback copy at Joseph-Beth Booksellers at Rookwood.

Ben Vore, general manager at Joseph-Beth, says the book is flying off store shelves. The store has sold about 600 copies in the first month since the book was released April 3.

"We have sold almost 600 to date and are selling about 100 a week. We just need to stay on top of it and reordering because the demand has been that steady," Vore said.