Google is taking a break from its Google Print Library project until November. Google will use this time to try and figure out which books’ copyright holders want their property included in the project.
The Association of American Publishers (AAP) is not satisfied with Google simply taking this break. “Google’s announcement does nothing to relieve the publishing industry’s concerns,” said Patricia Schroeder, AAP’s President and CEO.
A press release from the AAP explains that publishers are eager to explore initiatives that promise to bring books to a vastly expanded audience through the innovative use of technology, but the Google Print Library Project is digitally reproducing copyrighted works to support Google’s sale of advertising in connection with its online search business operations without corresponding participation or approval by the copyright holders.
Google plans to digitally copy every piece from three major libraries unless they are denied permission on certain works by copyright owners.
“Google’s procedure shifts the responsibility for preventing infringement to the copyright owner rather than the user, turning every principle of copyright law on its ear,” said Schroeder.
This is an interesting point. Should owners of the copyrights be held responsible for keeping up with one company’s plans to reproduce their property?
“Many AAP members have partnered with Google in its Print for Publishers Program, allowing selected titles to be digitized and searchable on a limited basis pursuant to licenses or permission from publishers, said Schroeder.
“We were confident that by working together, Google and publishers could have produced a system that would work for everyone, and regret that Google has decided not to work with us on our alternative proposal.”
Chris is a staff writer for Murdok. Visit Murdok for the latest ebusiness news.
