Project Gutenberg (1971-2008)

"Project Gutenberg (1971-2008)" by Marie Lebert is an exploration into the creation and development of a groundbreaking digital library initiative founded in the 1970s. It serves as a record and study of Project Gutenberg's evolution, strategies, and effect on open access to books. The book highlights the project’s goal of providing free digital versions of public domain works, mirroring changes in how people get knowledge and literature. Starting with founder Michael Hart's dream of globally accessible literature, it follows the digitization of crucial texts and the project's growth by 2008. Lebert portrays the methods of getting literature to the public including how volunteers helped, plus she shows how developing internet technologies aided expansion. It also examines copyright issues and the project's commitment to promoting literacy. On the whole, it presents a leading effort in digital distribution, building an early example for cultural resource accessibility.