I got this neat e-mail yesterday:
Michael,
Do you know of any public library, or other kind of library,?that?is running?iTunes?on a server and allows patrons to listen via a public access computer?? Our Library is looking at possibly providing this service but I have not found any site that is talking about it.
Thanks for your help!
I love this idea! iTunes has the capability nthrough Rendezvous to access a library on another Mac on the network and stream the songs for listening. At my desk at SJCPL on any given day I see other folks libraries: Adam, Kris, Nancy, Mike, Marianne, Joe, etc as well as my own library. There is no copying or “stealing” of the digital files — just listening!
Patron applications abound…. could a public library make their public use computers into listening stations as well by streaming a huge iTunes library out to them and some headphones? What’s the DRM implications here? I don’t think there would be if the music on the master iTunes machine was ripped and then shelved as an archive.
If anyone is doing this or has comments… e-mail me! (any libraries circulating iPods yet???)