How are Public Libraries not illegal?
Question by Uvula: How are Public Libraries not illegal?
Aren’t public libraries technically in violation of copyright laws? How is the free distribution of copyrighted books different from pirating software, music and films?
Sure, library loans are temporary, but temporarily downloading and later deleting a song/film/program would hardly stop a court of law from prosecuting someone. Libraries certainly hurt the revenue of publishing companies and authors, probably more so even than illegal downloading does record labels.
So why are they sanctioned by the government? Why do publishing companies not protest their copyright infringement?
Many software and music pirates purchase the materials before sharing them with others just as libraries do.
I have no problem with the free availability of information. I’m just curious as to the government’s basis for its inconsistencies.
Best answer:
Answer by ATTENTION: Testicles That Is All
I kind of agree….but in a different way…the concept of a place where people can go and get free information is nice…but that information is controlled by the government which is where I have the problem.
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