MEDIA RELEASE COURTESY OF: CAL

Copyright Agency Limited (CAL) has announced it will be holding two free seminars in Melbourne and Sydney to discuss the implications of the Google Book Settlement (the Settlement).

The Settlement is the result of a class action on behalf of the Association of American Publishers, the Authors Guild (US) and several publishers, who objected to Google scanning in-copyright books and publishing parts of these works online. Google responded with a Settlement offer to rightsholders in late 2008, and after significant public debate, an Amended Settlement in November 2009.

CAL’s International Affairs and Digital Strategy Coordinator Michael Lijic says that with the extended first major Settlement deadline of 28 January 2010 being just over two weeks away, rightsholders need to consider what Google is offering and what options are available.

‘Australian rightsholders still have the opportunity to participate in the Settlement. But it is even more important that you take the time now to understand the details of the revised Settlement and how it may affect you as a rightsholder. Unless you opt out of the Settlement, you will be bound by the agreement, and subject to its terms,’ he says.

Presented by Michael Lijic, the seminars will discuss the Settlement in more detail including the different deadlines and the options that exist for rightsholders.

Michael says that it is also important that rightsholders seek their own independent legal advice before making any decisions that could affect future entitlements under any licence scheme related to the Settlement.

‘The decision to opt in our out will be different for everyone. It is important that you make an informed decision based on your own individual circumstances and what is best for you.’

The dates and times for Melbourne and Sydney seminars are as follows:

Melbourne:
Date: Tuesday 19 January 2010
Venue: Village Roadshow Theatrette, State Library of Victoria, 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne
Time: 2.00-3.30 pm

Sydney
Date: Friday 22 January 2010
Venue: Metcalfe Auditorium, State Library of New South Wales, Macquarie Street, Sydney
Time: 10.00-11.30 am

Bookings for both seminars: email events@copyright.com.au or call +612 9394 7600

Refreshments will be served free of charge