They mention that they realized users wanted the notebooks back, but I didn't see any details on how they would do this. It's left as a problem to solve.
They solved it. Mod Notebooks gives you the option to have your notebook back.
The reason they couldn't do it was because the company doing the scanning could not scan it non-destructively. Very likely, they just switched to another company.
You're addressing something avenger123 never asked. They are asking HOW the process happens, considering removing the binding is the most efficient way to accurately scan them as far as we are aware.
I don't know what you mean. My original comment remains unchanged. I understand Google used special machines to scan books and was wondering if its the same sort of tech involved. I'm sure the size of the notebook has something to do with the tech they are using to accomplish this.