Book publishing: British authors turn their backs on Google Books

K Rowling, Philip Pullman and other British authors are turning their backs on Google’s new digital library.

The financial deal offered to authors by Google only applies to certain titles and has become a flashpoint between the online giant and those who say it is violating copyright in its quest to create the world’s biggest online library.

Under the deal, Google Books will carry books that are out of copyright, as well as “snippets” of in-copyright titles and the option to pay to read a full copy. The deal offers authors $60 per title that appears online plus a share of revenue.

Authors must choose to opt out, rather than opt in, so their work will be included automatically if they do not object by today. Mr Pullman’s agent said that Google’s new project was set up clearly for the benefit of Google. “Google can’t afford to do it without the support of major authors — they have to come back with a better deal.” Ms Rowling’s lawyer said that the settlement “purports to change US and international copyright rules”.

Other British authors including Helen Oyeyemi, Kamila Shamsie and Nick Harkaway have signed a petition which argues the settlement “renders copyright essentially meaningless”. A spokesman for Google said: “We can’t speak for authors, but a number of them have decided to opt into the settlement, as they realize it creates an entirely new revenue stream.”

However the fact remains that Google has already digitized more than 10 million volumes in over 100 languages, and has agreements with libraries to scan millions more. And now it’s up to authors to decide whether to enter the deal or turn it down.