Judge decides against Internet Archive (file770.com)

Article summary

A US judge has ruled against the Internet Archive in a lawsuit filed by four book publishers, stating that the Archive's practice of scanning and lending copyrighted books without permission constitutes copyright infringement. The judge found that the Archive's actions did not qualify as fair use under copyright law. The decision may have significant implications for the Archive's operations and the availability of digital copies of copyrighted works. The ruling is seen as a victory for book publishers and a setback for advocates of digital lending and access to knowledge.

Main themes

• copyright law
• digital lending
• Internet Archive
• book publishing
• democracy
• Electoral College
• lobbying
• access to knowledge

What commenters say

• The Internet Archive's actions were illegal and undermined the rights of authors and publishers.
• The current copyright system is outdated and needs to be reformed to accommodate digital lending and access to knowledge.
• The National Popular Vote Interstate Compact is a threat to the sovereignty of individual states and the democratic process.
• The Electoral College system is unfair and gives disproportionate power to certain states and voters.
• Lobbying and money have too much influence in politics and undermine the democratic process.
• The Internet Archive's actions were a necessary challenge to the existing copyright system and a step towards greater access to knowledge.
• The decision will harm the public interest and limit access to knowledge and information.