Google Books

I recently read "Throwing Google at the Book" by Farhad Manjoo. The piece examines the debate about Google's attempt to digitize entire libraries of books. Google feels that this will bring greater accessibility and exposure to books, especially to lesser-known titles. Many authors feel that Google's attempts are a violation of their rights, and sued to stop the project.

I think probably the biggest sticking point in the whole debate is money. Many people see the amount of money Google stood to gain from ad revenue, etc. as the real reason they have undertaken the project, rather than any enlightened interest in bringing literature to the masses.

As far as whether the project should proceed or not, I'm a fence-sitter. I see both sides of the debate. Google Books would be a hugely useful resource as a student. However, I also understand that authors would like to protect their intellectual property (although I don't doubt that many would be fine with the whole project if they could get a slice of the income pie that Google would earn.) Under current copyright law however, its not likely that the project will ever move forward.