I’ve spent most of this morning reading through some documentation sent to me by John Jarrold, my agent, concerning the Google Book Settlement. Google is in the process of digitising books. It began this, and has continued to do so, largely without the permission of rights holders.
The issues are complex. Even the summary I read contained several statements to the effect that we simply won’t how aspects of the agreement will be interpreted until they are tested in a court. Adding to the complexity is a mish-mash of UK and US jurisdictional problems.
Overall, I don’t think Google’s actions are legal; opting in to the settlement will suggest I agree with the legitimisation of an illegal act, which I don’t. It represents a fundamental change to copyright law that puts the onus on rights holders to defend themselves against behemothic entities.
If you’d like to know more, here is the Google Book Settlement Page; and here is a summary by Gillian Spraggs.
Has John given you any advice on this? I’m still undecided.…
Hi Matt
No, John sent me some summary documents and told me to make my own decision. I think that’s sensible; I certainly wouldn’t tell anyone what to do for the simple reason that many parts of the agreement are vague and difficult to interpret. It could well turn out to be the best thing since sliced bread (for certain authors). Otherwise, who knows? Having your book in the Apple iBook store might be the way to go.
My gut feeling is that publishers, in general, will like the deal because it provides a trickle revenue for the back catalogue. Writers, in general, won’t like the deal because it erodes certain rights; but the upside is that some will make money.
On the money side of things, it’s worth noting that authors who opt in to the settlement will get a cash sum within three years of the settlement being finalised. However, in order to get it, you’ll need to obtain a tax code from the United States’ IRS. This will involve travelling to the US Embassy, amongst other things. It’s things like that that make be uneasy about the whole thing.
I could go on all day about it; generally, I’m worried.
Best
Ian
Thanks for this Ian.
After considering the pros and cons (well, as much as I understand them) I’ve chosen to opt out. I’m sure Google will provide the choice to opt back in, in the future. It’s just that I don’t like the lack of control over one’s works.
That, and I trust Google about as far as digitally throw them…
Yes, that’s probably sensible — and you’re right to say that Google will probably give you the opportunity to opt back in. Brave New World, eh?