Microsoft to scan 100,000 British Library books

SEARCH ENGINE contender Microsoft has retaliated to ambitious Google plans by striking a deal with the British Library to digitise 100,000 of its books.

While the project doesn't begin until 2006, it's a long standing commitment, according to the British Library.

Chief curator Lynne Brindley said the British Library wants to promote ready access to its collection for everyone who wants to use it.

Brindley has recruited Microsoft to help build the digital extensions for its National Digital Library.

And to think Microsoft thought for years that the Internet wasn't important.

The British Library project started in June this year and will include digital items like e-journals, e-books and CD ROMs. But the British Library said it will use open standards so if the technology bounds ahead it won't be left stranded. µ

L'INQ
British Library site