I may be coming into this late, but is it too late to file an objection to the settlement? Usually with class action settlements, there's a proposed settlement, notice is sent to class members (which you are unless and until you opt out), and class members have a period of time in which to file objections to the settlement (and/or to opt out - from what I've read, the current opt-out deadline is Sept. 4, but possibly the LA Times writer doesn't know the difference between opting out and objecting). Then there's a fairness hearing where the objectors have a chance to talk (preferably through attorneys). Only then, if the Court approves the settlement after hearing the objections, does the settlement go into effect (possibly with additional time to opt out).

It looks like the fairness hearing for final approval of the Google books settlement isn't until October, so you might still have time to file an objection. There's still a chance (especially with the justice dept breathing down google's neck re "orphan" book monopolies) that the settlement won't be approved.

Every objection counts - one of the things the Court looks at when it decides to approve a settlement is the percentage of class members who file an objection. So, even if 80% of authors complain about the settlement privately, if only 2% file objections, the evidence at the fairness hearing will show that 98% of authors approve of the settlement.