The Public Library and Filesharing

Joe and the pylon

I'm continuing to get good use out of the awesome Vancouver Public Library. Pictured above is the Joe Fortes Branch, one of the two locations near me.

It's easy to see the benefits of a library system. It spreads culture throughout the populace with a low barrier. Having a wide variety of materials available is good for everyone. So how is this different from online file sharing? It's a tricky question.

Posted by dustin on March 13, 2007 with category tags of

1 comment
1) public library, 1 purchase can generally be used by thousands. online file sharing, 1 purchase can be used by millions.

2) public library, a product can only be used by one patron at a time. This makes it available, but doesn't serve as a disincentive for people to purchase it if they can't/don't want to wait. Online file sharing, generally files can be shared but multiple people at the same time.

3) public library, a product can only (legally) be used temporarily. Again, people who want it permanently would likely still buy it. Online file sharing, you get a permanent copy.
   comment by clare on March 17, 2007

   

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