Google and Creators Unite

May I say congratulations to the Author's Guild, Association of American Publishers, and Association of Authors Agents who have filed suite against Google and its use of copyrighted materials without permission from the creators. Google really should have worked out a deal with the above parties and spared everyone a nasty and expensive court fight.

How about an out of court settlement? Google could make a great deal. All you orgs listed above: this could be a huge cash cow if you play it right. Just think, one of the biggest online players sends you a fee each time your content is used. Sweet. Researchers don't love Google so much as they love finding what they need by using Google. Let us not forget that someday e-books are coming, and everyone can get a piece of that action too. Google and the authors, artists, agents, and publisher could all do well.

Researchers and casual browsers alike will love Google's speedy access to content hidden away in libraries. The united front of content makers should consider carefully what kind of a relationship will follow any court battles. Don't miss a chance to make media history.