The Great Read: The Dream Was Universal Access to Knowledge. The Result Was a Fiasco.

In the pandemic emergency, Brewster Kahle's Internet Archive freely lent out digital scans of its library. Publishers sued. Owning a book means something different now.

Continue reading the main story August 14, 2023, 2:00 p.m. Eastern time Every weekday, we recommend one piece of exceptional writing from The Times — a narrative or essay that takes you someplace you might not expect to go. Ann Johansson for The New York Times The Dream Was Universal Access to Knowledge. The Result Was a Fiasco. In the pandemic emergency, Brewster Kahle's Internet Archive freely lent out digital scans of its library. Publishers sued. Owning a book means something different now. Open now Continue reading the main story Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this email because you signed up for top stories or great reads from The New York Times. To stop receiving The Great Read, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. To opt out of updates and offers sent from The Athletic, submit a request. Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app Connect with us on: Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018