Google announced recently that in the beginning of 2010 it will be launching “Google Editions,” an online e-book store.

Google Editions will enable customers to purchase and download books through a web browser to any e-reader. Readers can make purchases either directly through Google, or other online stores like Amazon. The new service will also be accessible through any device that can reach Gmail, which will provide Editions access directly to the device.

The firm plans to launch the service with access to some 500,000 titles, and the library is expected to expand rapidly throughout the year.