1. A method of delivering rented media to a subscriber comprising the steps of: providing a maximum number of media items (Nmax) which the subscriber can have out at any moment in time; delivering a media item to the subscriber in accordance with a priority specified by the subscriber; incrementing a count of media items out (Nout); determining if Nout>&equals;Nmax; when Nout>&equals;Nmax, setting a timer to a predetermined delay; delivering another media item to the subscriber after expiration of said predetermined delay, even if Nout>&equals;Nmax; wherein a number of media items in excess of Nmax can be in the subscriber's possession and/or in transit to/from the subscriber.