New York Times Settles Copyright Case Over Thumbnail Images

Readers might remember that earlier this year the NY Times sued a publisher who used thumbnail reproductions of the newspaper’s front pages in a book that attacks the Times war coverage. A few of us mentioned that this was a ridiculous and petty lawsuit, one which read as vindictive rather than protective (the book is critical of how the NY Times glamorizes war for the sake of sales). I also said that this was a clear case of fair use.

Well, they just settled.

The details of the settlement are not public, but a court filing shows the deal was dismissed with prejudice (meaning the parties can’t sue again later on), and without costs. U.S. District Judge Richard Sullivan added, however, that either side may bring the case back to court within the next 30 days if they provide an explanation.