Call for the book

The Internet provides formidable chances for books: it enables readers to see the most recent work. That had been difficult in the past. Moreover, the Internet makes it possible to discover new authors, new texts, and new publishers.

The Internet provides opportunities for book readers; it enables them to see the most recent work.

But in France over the past year we have seen a threat to cultural diversity: on the Internet, Amazon.fr has a monopoly on the sale of books. Its aggressive marketing policy requires high commercial margins for the smallest publishers. It weakens them excessively and threatens the hope of better access.

This is because Amazon is financing the cost of shipping in a way that offers special discounts to publishers. This violates the law and Amazon was condemned in December 2007. The law often provides for a selling price which is lower than that practised in other countries yet pays everyone involved more fairly.

Amazon decided to appeal the condemnation in the « court of public opinion » . For the past month, it has spoken against French bookstores in an online forum and in a petition.

Booksellers do not fear the Internet. However, we need more respect for the principles of a healthy competition. Booksellers with know-how can provide everyone with greater access.

We need help. Amazon says it has a petition with 130 000 signatures. The company wants to appeal against the decision. Even Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, has signed the petition. Its purpose to put pressure on the court.

We have less than two months to collect more than 130 000 signatures. In France, our action is supported by independent publishers, booksellers, librarians, many writers and poets. But we need you; we need you because we don’t have the corporate workers that Amazon does. We need your signature.