Even public libraries, which you might think would escape the Windows/Apple format wars, helplessly
offer
audiobook downloads that play only in WMA-enabled portables. It's not the libraries' fault, of course; they take what
is given them by wholesale distributors of virtual audiobook product.
There's another head-scratching aspect of this story. The DRM that wraps these audiobook files causes automatic
expiration of the file when the file is due back at the library. Of course, the idea of returning an electronically
transferred file is absurd, so the purpose of the DRM must be to prevent cannibalizing physical audiobook sales. But
wait—the entire purpose of libraries is to obviate the necessity of buying books, audiobooks, CDs, and other materials.
So if a patron keeps the audiobook file forever … what difference does it make? Is this another case of content owners
getting confused between illegal behavior and damagin behavior?
Format Wars Affect Library Audiobook Downloads, Too
Reader Comments
(Page 1)2. The format "wars" are affecting far more people than just casual readers. School textbook publishers have been far too slow to in recognizing the fact that electronic textbooks are valuable for individuals with disabilities. Just because one doesn't read at a college level doesn't mean that they are not able to learn. After 3rd or 4th grade kids are reading to learn. They will continue to learn to read but the focus is on learning and using the information from their texts. Teachers know this, however it is quite obvious that politicians and CEO's don't seem to be able to grasp this fact. I wonder if the majority of those in control even care.
I frankly don't understand why these companies don't work together, embrace the Universal Design for Learning concept and actually provide the tools necessary for all students, including those who struggle with the PROCESS of reading.
Posted at 5:58AM on Dec 19th 2005 by Christy Werder
3. The whole idea about automatic expiration is two-fold: 1. to match what libraries already do (you borrow the book then return it when you're done); and 2. because that's what the subscription services require.
It's one way to define this new digital age, anyway!
Posted at 5:58AM on Dec 19th 2005 by David King
4. The whole idea about automatic expiration is two-fold: 1. to match what libraries already do (you borrow the book then return it when you're done); and 2. because that's what the subscription services require.
It's one way to define this new digital age, anyway!
Posted at 5:58AM on Dec 19th 2005 by David King
1. Most librarys offer a wide variety of Books on Tape/CD as it stands. There is nothing to stop a patron from checking out a book on CD and making a copy for himself. This is not quite as convenient as simply downloading a copy (though it may not be any slower if you're on dialup) but since the end user is doing the encoding, he can control the format and the quality level of the files created. Plus, obviously, no DRM restrictions.
Posted at 5:58AM on Dec 19th 2005 by Sir Not Appearing in this Blog