Open Source

MongoDB, the developer of a popular document-oriented distributed database server by the same name, has updated the open source license that applies to versions of its software published after October 16, 2018.

Previously, the MongoDB software was licensed under the GNU Affero General Public License v.3 (“AGPLv3”), which is a “strong copyleft” license. Strong copyleft licenses, among other things, require that the source code for the licensed software (including any modifications) be made available to the public, typically when the software is distributed to third parties. AGPLv3 goes further than other strong copyleft licenses in that the obligation to make source code available is triggered not only when the software is distributed, but also when it is accessed over a computer network, such as the Internet.

In an apparent response to attempts by users of MongoDB to architect their services so as to avoid the obligation to make their source code modifications available under AGPLv3, MongoDB has created a modified version of AGPLv3 (see here for a redline comparison) with broader disclosure and licensing obligations. The new license is called the Server Side Public License v.1 (“SSPLv1”).Continue Reading Understanding MongoDB’s New Copyleft Open Source License

California Governor Jerry Brown signed into law two pieces of legislation on September 27, paving the way for the creation of free, open-source digital textbooks for 50 of the most popular lower-division courses in California’s public colleges and universities.  SB 1052 establishes the California Open Education Resources Council.  This body is tasked with selecting the 50 courses and developing a competitive process through which “faculty members, publishers, and other interested parties” may seek funding to create textbooks for the designated courses.  The textbooks are to be made available to students in the selected courses for free online, or in hard copy for $20.

SB 1052 also sets out criteria for the textbooks themselves.  Most notably, it requires that the textbooks be “placed under a creative commons attribution license that allows others to use, distribute, and create derivative works based upon the digital material while still allowing the authors or creators to receive credit for their efforts.” 
Continue Reading California to Offer Open Source Textbooks under Creative Commons Licenses