The initial trials will begin next week on a limited sample of 1,000 users. Some of the details and restrictions are still somewhat hazy but it’s stated that the shared library will only be accessible by one person at a time and priority on shared games will be given to the actual game owner. Region restrictions will still be enforced and games with third party keys/subscriptions may also be exempt from sharing. That being said the possibilities for sharing entire libraries with people is a mouthwatering prospect!
With all the excitement around the upcoming console releases it seems Valve want in on the action and this news will certainly turn a few heads. Anything that gives the consumer more options and less restrictions should be received well and only enhance the strong relationship Valve has with its customers. Although i have no doubt the places will be snapped up pretty quickly you can check out the Steam site for some more details and a chance to be picked for this Beta or possibly future trials.