Quote:
Originally Posted by HarryT
If he has an exclusive distribution contract with his publisher, then although it's not "piracy", he's probably at least breaching his contract.
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It would depend on precise wording, of course, for instance what the contract said about electronic publication.
And if he's signed over the copyright, then it's a clear case of piracy.
I have a book with a major academic press. If I could distribute it for free electronically, I would do so in a heartbeat, in order to increase readership (which is what I care about; nobody is really making money on this item). But I can't, given the wording of my contract. Since I freely consented to the contract, I need to abide by it.
One thing I was wondering: Does he NOW have permission from his publisher for this? (The reason I ask is that if he does, then I'll happily download one of his books. But if not, well I can't really cooperate in possible breach of contract.)