As a writer of non-fiction in specialised areas with small markets, I have given up hope of making any real money out of my writing, which I must regard it as a public service.
On the other hand, I need research materials, and I am quite narked when I cannot get hold of them because of some pettifogging regulation imposed on us from overseas. Fortunately, most of the material I need came out of copyright before the new regulations were imposed.
I agree with Kerry to some extent. A book that has been out of print for years, and which is not going to be reprinted, should not be restricted if the originator(s) are deceased or not going to be able to benefit from it financially - ever. I think, however, that there should be a longer copyright window. Not long ago, a work had no copyright protection unless it was registered; it was considered a progressive step when automatic copyright applied, as this extended protection to private correspondence as well. However, everything has changed with the advent of internet and google and blogs.


Reply With Quote
