The realization of the digital library — a computer system to enable anyone with a workstation to have access to any of the published works of mankind — has stayed out of reach because of a presumed technical problem. Once a written work is digitized, it becomes so easy to make and distribute copyright infringing copies that publishers would go out of business. A technical solution to thi problem based on trusted systems and digital property rights is now becoming available. The big issues for libraries — social and institutional policy challenges — are still ahead.