Google Expands Controversial Book Scanning Program In Europe

Some companies programs that come under fire and could be headed for court but not Google, which is expanding its controversial book scanning program. Google’s goal of creating digital, searchable versions of every book has been stymied by protests from U.S. publishers concerned about protecting copyrights. But while much of the U.S. project is stalled, Google has gone global — launching stand-alone book search services in 14 countries where users can now do English-language keyword searches and read specific passages.
At the same time, another major publishing association — Text and Academic Authors Association — is protesting Google’s offer to let publishers opt out instead of opt into the program. (via Marketing Vox)

Update: AP: Google said European publishers interested in having their books scanned include: Grupo Planeta and Grupo Anaya, both of Spain; De Boeck and Editions De L’Eclat, both of France; Netherlands’ Springer Science & Business Media; Italy’s Giunti Editore; and Germany’s Mare Buchverlag.

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