The Library Copyright Alliance (LCA) has announced the release of a diagram titled ‘GBS March Madness: Paths Forward for the Google Books Settlement.’ The diagram, developed by Jonathan Band, explores the many possible routes and outcomes of the Google Books Settlement, including avenues into the litigation and appeals process.
A fairness hearing on the Google Books Settlement was recently held. Judge Chin is however yet to decide whether the amended settlement agreement, submitted to the Court by Google, the Authors Guild, and the Association of American Publishers, is ‘fair, reasonable, and adequate.’ The diagram shows that Judge Chin’s decision is only the next step in a very complex legal proceeding that could take a dozen more turns before reaching resolution.
According to LCA, the diagram does not reflect every possible twist in the case, despite its apparent complexity. Neither does it address the substantive reasons why a certain outcome may occur or the impact of Congressional intervention through legislation. The precise way forward is difficult to predict, according to industry observers.
The diagram can be viewed at http://www.arl.org/bm~doc/gbs-march-madness-diagram-final.pdf.
The LCA is a coalition of library associations made up of the Association of Research Libraries, the American Library Association and the Association of College and Research Libraries.
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