Libraries Ask Judge to Monitor Google Books Settlement

Three groups representing libraries, including the American Library Association, the largest such group in the United States, have asked a federal judge to exercise “vigorous oversight” over a class action settlement between Google, authors and publishers.

The two other groups are the Association of College and Research Libraries and the Association of Research Libraries. The groups did not oppose the settlement, but in a court filing they asked United States District Court Judge Denny Chin to provide continuing oversight of it, to ensure that the prices Google charges for subscriptions to its digital library aren’t artificially high because of a lack of competition. They have also asked Judge Chin to ensure that the privacy of readers of books made available online by Google is protected.

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