"Analyzing the Reason Why Publishers Cannot Provide Readers with the Text Data of Books"
UEMURA Kaname
last update: 20151225
Analyzing the Reason Why Publishers Cannot Provide Readers with the Text Data of Books
UEMURA Kaname
Abstract:
Making the text data of books available is indispensable for improving the reading conditions of the visually
impaired. It is possible for publishing companies to make text data from the typographical version of a
publication. However, in most cases, publishing companies do not usually accept demands by the visually
impaired for the production and supply of electronic versions of books. At the base of the publishing companies'
lack of cooperation are four main elements: the law, print technology, costs, and intra-company rules.
Publishing companies usually point to the law and to print technology as the reasons for not offering text data,
but cost is the significant factor for them. Unfortunately, the publishing companies' viewpoint reflects only
their needs and ignores those of visually impaired readers.
Keywords: copy rights, cost, desktop publishing, reading condition, visually impaired
REV: 20151225