Library Tech Confidential

From Google settles landmark lawsuit over book scanning [Library Journal] :

If approved by a federal judge, the settlement would end a class-action suit filed September 20, 2005 by the AG and certain authors, and another suit filed October 19, 2005 by five major AAP members. It would transform Google Book Search into a major online bookstore, creating a one-stop experience for users who wishing to search, access, print or buy copies of books. The announcement comes just weeks after LJ reported reported on October 10 that a settlement was imminent… [read more]

A settlement is good, but a verdict confirming Google’s approach as fair use would have been better.  For more information on what this will mean for Google Book Search product, there’s more detailed information from Google. 

This paves the way for some seriously innovative offerings that will be particularly relevant to special libraries.  When trying to find titles for ILL I have frequently come up empty at local libraries but found exactly what I need on Google.  Depending on the price point, this could be a real lifesaver.