Harvard Delays Napster Response

Harvard will not respond to a request to block access to Napster until at least next Wednesday, University Attorney Allan A. Ryan said yesterday.

The attorney requesting the ban on behalf of the artists Dr. Dre and Metallica had asked for a reply by Friday. Ryan hinted Tuesday that the University might not respond to the musicians by the requested date.

Ryan said the extra time is needed to consult a variety of individuals within the University for input before a making a final decision.

"It's not really unusual to want to make sure that everyone involved has had a chance to be heard," Ryan said.

If Harvard decides to block Napster, students could find the service unavailable as early as Thursday, Sept. 28.

--Parker R. Conrad