The Google Books layer in Google Earth offers users a new way to explore the world of books. By turning on the Google Books layer, users can fly from place to place, reading as they go, or they can search for a specific place name and browse a selection of references to that place name in both fiction and non-fiction texts. For more information, check out our post on Inside Google Books.
How do I find it?
Download Google Earth, if you haven't already. Once in the program, go to the left-side panel and check the box titled Featured Content and select Google Books. As you zoom in on the map, books icons will appear. Each icon represents an out-of-copyright book that references the location shown in Google Earth. Clicking on the book icon will show you basic information about the book and a snippet of text where the place name appears. You can then click through to be taken to the actual book page in Google Books or select the Search for all books referencing [location] link to see all the Google Books results for that place name.
Why did Google create this layer?
We're focused on building the most comprehensive, relevant virtual atlas of geographic information on the Web. We hope to further that goal by bringing the vast resources of Google Books to Google Earth, where users can find geographically relevant books content in just a few clicks.
Why does the layer only show out-of-copyright books?
We're working to expand this feature so that users can also discover Partner Program books, but the initial launch includes public domain books only.
Which out-of-copyright works can I see from my country?
Google Books is designed to comply with the different laws in different countries. If a book is out-of-copyright in your country and Google Earth is available to you, then you will be able to see the book on Google Earth's maps.
I want to allow my books to be included as part of the layer for Books. What do I need to do?
We're working to expand this feature so that users can also discover Partner Program books, but the initial launch includes public domain books only.
Interested in joining the Google Books Partner Program, a free sales and marketing program for publishers and authors? Click here to sign up.
How do I create my own layer for a particular book?
While layers come embedded in Google Earth, you can write a KML file which has any information you'd like. You can share this file with others by giving them access to download it and they can then open the file in Google Earth to see your information. Check out the Google Earth KML page for more information on how you can create your own KML file.
