Shadow Libraries distribute literature freely to everyone. Especially for academic workers they are indispensable, providing access to research confined by big copyright owners earning without doing anything other than providing files. PDFs of books and papers —freely available regardless of copyright status—form a critical foundation for knowledge work in many places..
My talk will revolve around Shadow Libraries, their operators and communities, their technical infrastructure, and aesthetics within the context of an increasingly commodifying and professionalizing world. The Undercommons will support to emphasize the importance of subversive actions and initiatives like Shadow Libraries in universities and beyond. Practically, you will learn how to use, support, and start a Shadow Library.
by Paul V. Schmidt
Connected to curated list: ≡ After Aaron, Alexandra and Anna – On Shadow Libraries
11.02., 5:30pm at Rietveld Pavilion – just come by!