Acknowledging that publishers are upset with its intent to scan library books without necessarily clearing copyrights with the publishers, Google has paused the Google Print Library Project until November. During the interim, Google has invited publishers to opt out of the program. Gracious as this gesture might be, it makes Google appear to be completely unaware of how copyright works. Copyright is the opting out of allowing others to make copies. Nothing more is needed. The responsibility for not copying lies with Google. Exemptions and licenses to copy are granted upon request on an opt-in basis. It's inconceivable that Google is unaware of this, so the real message from Google is this: "We're going to copy the damn books unless you stop us." Google is pitching this whole deal as a way to promote the books and increase readership, all of which I basically agree with. I want there to be a universal library of fair-use book excerpts online. The problem here is not Google's mission; it is, once again, Google's tin ear for public relations and palpable arrogance. And aren't the libraries culpable here, too? They bought the books and lend them, but how is it they open their doors to an entity that intends to sweep through the stacks copying everything? Shouldn't the publishers be pounding on the libraries as much as on Google?








1. How can anyone loose money on books that through our libraries are already available for free.Give this knowledge to the whole world.Education should never be deprived and it can only make the world a better place.It's time to change the rules.Three cheers for Google.
Posted at 4:42AM on Dec 19th 2005 by tess ealloretta