WASHINGTON D.C. - The expanding Google Print project has sparked litigation between Google and copyright holders, but it has also sparked debate among all those with an interest in copyrighted works. In a digital age of ever-easier access to information, what does the Google Print project tell us about the future of fair use and copyright? To explore these topics, The Progress & Freedom Foundation is hosting a Congressional Seminar on November 18th at the Rayburn House Office Building. "Gutenberg Meets Google: The Debate About Google Print" will provide a forum for representatives from multiple perspectives in the debate.

The Google Print Project, which allows users to search full texts of books and view "snippets" containing the search term, will obtain content from two sources: the Google Print Publisher Program and the Google Print Library Project. For the Publisher Program, Google solicits submissions from publishers to be included in the searchable Print database.

More controversial is the Google Print Library Project. Google has partnered with the New York Public Library and various universities to scan the contents of their libraries into the Google Print database. Publishers may opt-out. While many view Google's actions as "fair use," some see a straightforward act of copying that requires the permission of the copyright holder. Panelists at the event, who will be announced shortly, will discuss the implications of the Google Print project on copyright policy in the digital age.

"Gutenberg Meets Google: The Debate About Google Print" will be held in room B369 of the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington , D.C. from 12:00pm - 2:00pm. Lunch will be served. Those interested in attending can register here. Questions concerning the event should be directed to Eileen Goulding at eileeng@pff.org or 202-289-8928. Media enquiries should be directed to Patrick Ross or Amy Smorodin at 202-289-8928 or pross@pff.org and asmorodin@pff.org, respectively.

The Progress & Freedom Foundation is a market-oriented think tank that studies the digital revolution and its implications for public policy. It is a 501(c)(3) research & educational organization.