brad said:
But this won't be of any help to brick and mortar libraries who want to integrate PG etexts into their existing catalogs.
why is this a priority of any kind? but perhaps i don't understand. just precisely what would it mean for a "brick and mortar library" to "integrate" this e-library into their catalog? that if i walk into the place and go to the catalog to look for a book, it will tell me that it's available online? d'uh, next time i'll stay home, and search google. why should a brick-and-mortar library want this? i thought the goal here was to create a global library, one that is available 24/7 from anyplace in the world, with millions of books that are never "unavailable" because they are "checked out" or "mis-shelved" or "awaiting reshelving" or "going through re-binding" or because "this branch has never had a copy of that book, sorry, you'll have to go to the main library downtown." am i the one who's not seeing things clearly? or are you?
The catalog as it stands represents a lot more effort than a lot of people realize. I hope people keep that in mind when they slam the existing catalog.
i agree. conversely, there's something perverse about giving people "credit" for working in a way that is clearly not efficient or productive... i could spend hours and hours and hours making a flyer, for instance, telling people how wonderful project gutenberg is, a flyer that would produce little effect out in the world. would you pat me on the back? or would you suggest instead that there is a better use for my energy? i humbly and respectfully suggest there is a better use for your energy. -bowerbird