Quote:
Originally Posted by wizwor
The impact is much bigger than copyright -- copyright is simply the most obvious problem. The libraries compete with commercial entities. How can blockbuster rent a movie for two bucks when the same DVD can be taken out of the library for free?
Does fair use cover copying of Consumer Reports ratings and reviews? RIAA sues people for downloading an album over the internet but has no problem with people ripping a cd borrored from their public library.
Edit: Then again, I don't think they ever sued anyone for downloading music, just for distributing it, so they might not pursue copiers.
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Well, from my own experience the selection at my local library is really limited. My library gets one or two copies of a few new releases, and there are never very many to choose from. Half their collection is on VHS anyway, which mainly sits there gathering dust until someone wants a tape on roof repair or something. I don't think Blockbuster is in any danger from libraries.
I'm pretty sure if the RIAA could track and prove that people were taking CDs home and copying them, then they would in-fact sue (or would have, I'm not sure if they're still filing new suits or not).
Edit: Then again, I don't think they ever sued anyone for downloading, just distributing. They might not pursue copiers unless they could somehow prove that the copied CD was being shared around.