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Time For an Independent Copyright Agency?

A congressional committee has recommended that copyright matters, which are currently under the control of the Librarian of Congress, be ceeded to an independent agency. Publishers Weekly reports.

Author-Friendly Copyright Defense Bill Introduced

A bill that might help authors defend their copyrights has been introduced in the US House of Representatives. Galley Cat reports.

An Independent Copyright Office?

Publishers Weekly reports that the American Library Association is unhappy with the proposal to make the Copyright Office independent of the Library of Congress, saying the problem is not dependence, but lack of resources.

Despite questions about the need for an independent federal agency to oversee copyright, however, there is broad agreement, even among critics, that the Copyright Office needs a major update.

Images and Copyright

What, if anything, can someone do when their image is used in a way that don't like? Wired discusses a recent case which suggests the answer may be, not much.

GSU Copyright Case: Not Dead Yet?

Publishers Weekly reports there is legal maneuvering that may reopen the entire matter.

Publishers Appeal Despite Favorable Decision

Publishers Weekly explores the reasons why publishers, having gotten a decision favorale to their interests, are appealing it anyway.

In a surprise move, the publisher plaintiffs in the closely-watched Georgia State University copyright case have asked for a full (en banc) hearing by the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, despite the fact that a three-judge panel handed them a victory last month when it unanimously reversed a 2012 district court verdict against them.

Julie of the Wolves

Open Road will not have to pay far more than it made from an ebook edition of Julie of the Wolves. On the other hand, HarperCollins' inclusive interpretation of an older contract was not cast aside either. Publishers Weekly has the story.

While ostensibly a copyright matter, the case was always more about e-book royalties. In court filings, it was revealed that HarperCollins had offered to do an e-book edition with George, but refused to budge from its standard 25% net royalty, which George, before her death in May 2012, deemed fundamentally unfair (Open Road pays a standard 50% e-book royalty).

Copying Is Not Theft

Of course there's the problem of attribution and creative commons. WE will not, at this time, mention making a living from one's work.

Talking About Copyright

The New Yorker has a history and consideration of copyright. One thins is clear: it's a divisive ssue.

Authors United to Appeal to the Department of Justice

Publishers Weekly reports that Authors United will send a letter to the DOJ asking that it look into Amazon's business practices. This is the third prong in AU's action against the major retailer, the first being an an ad in The New York Times, and the second a letter sent to Amazon's board members. So far Amazon has not shifted.