O’Reilly Radar > Google Library vs. Publishers
Yes, BZ time for Google…
Interesting debates with, as with most debates, valid points on both sides. For an end-user, academic, and wannabe-geek, it’s hard not to side with Google (and Tim O’Reilly).
Here’s a nice quote:
another case where old line publishers are being dragged kicking and screaming towards a future that is actually going to be good for them.
The same could be applied to many in the recording industry and other “Old Media” players. It’s quite possible that those who resist so much (the “old line publishers” and music industry executives) simply haven’t been able to look any further than the tip of their collective nose. Some associate it with the typical reactionary attitude of the Old Guard while others might see it as pure myopic greed. Who knows?
Still, it must be said that the arguments mentioned on the publishing side aren’t absurd, though they do center on control and finance (instead of the greater good).
Greater good my ass. Using 4 key words in the Google Print search box for one on my books (a reference book) allows you to access more than 75% of the book.
Ridiculous.
Meaning that you’re concerned that people won’t buy the book if they can access a large proportion of its content?
Interesting argument. But then, do public libraries really bring down book sales?