Google has partnered with some major libraries to digitize books from their collections libraries. They also partner with some small publishers such as Arcadia as well as well-established publishers (Cambridge University Press, Springer)
Currently, there are approximately 7 million titles available through Google Books. Many are in the public domain, but many are still under copyright. Google has recently reached a new agreement with publishers will allow for greater access to works still in copyright, especially out of print titles, as well as for paid access to individual works and subscriptions. Read the agreement.
Searching Google Books is just like doing a regular Google Web search. You may do a simple or advanced keyword search of the full-text of the content.
Results provided include full-text (public domain works) or partial preview or snippet view for works under copyright.
Sample search: “What made the Swampscott dory unique?”
A search of Google Books for “Swampscott dory”, not surprisingly, yields lots of relevant results. In fact, depending upon the detail required, one might need go no further than the results page, since the excerpts provide information on the boat’s design. Several of the works listed provide greater detail on the design of the boat, some with images. See, for example, The International Annual of Anthony’s Photographic Bulletin and American Process Yearbook.
Search http://books.google.com/