Editorial: State alleges firm overcharges books

That's just one reason why Nevada has joined 17 other states in a lawsuit alleging that one of the nation's largest book wholesalers has defrauded schools and libraries. The lawsuit is straightforward: It accuses Baker & Taylor of contracting to sell the books at specific discounts from the publisher's retail price, but then failing to honor that discount.

The states add that this was no honest mistake, contending the company purposely set its computers to defraud these public institutions. While it doesn't have an exact amount, the attorney general's office estimates that the company overcharged Nevada schools and libraries several hundred thousand dollars. The lawsuit aims to recover damages and a permanent injunction against the company.

If the allegations against the company are true, it truly is a scandal that someone would try to make money at the expense of a child's education.

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