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Abstract
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This brief article examines two recent copyright cases brought against the Internet Archive and explains how the outcomes of these cases might impact the libraries and librarians, library patrons, and the general public. The first case, Hachette v. Internet Archive involves the development of the Open Library for controlled digital lending. The second case, UMG Recordings, Inc. v. Internet Archive involves music recording companies suing the Internet Archive for its “Great 78 Project.” In both cases, the impact will be felt by the general public and copyright law will inevitably be shaped by the outcomes as well. Thus far, the publishers are winning these lawsuits and while some authors may applaud the outcomes, librarians are watching them with interest and sadness. These battles will continue to be fought, if not in the courtrooms, in the legislative branches state by state.