Final answer:
Project Gutenberg provides free access to thousands of literary and reference works, including fiction, drama, poetry, and prose. It broadens access to literature, both fiction and non-fiction, playing a pivotal role in the digital book revolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Project Gutenberg makes thousands of literary and reference books and materials available free to everyone. The correct answer is 'a. Literary and reference'. Project Gutenberg is a treasure trove of literature, providing access to a vast array of works that are in the public domain. It offers various forms of literature such as fiction, drama, poetry, and prose, adhering to the broader definition of literature which encompasses any written work with or without literary merit. This includes works of non-fiction and historical significance, ensuring a wide spectrum of literature is available to the public.
Project Gutenberg's mission aligns with promoting free access to literature and information, which echoes the historical significance of the original Gutenberg press in democratizing knowledge. Given the nature of the platform and the types of works made available, it is clear that while Project Gutenberg may also include works that could be considered educational, instructional, scientific, and historical, its primary focus is on literary works. Moreover, Project Gutenberg plays a role in the contemporary shift from traditional paper/print media to electronic books, or e-books, widening access to these literary materials for readers around the world.