Future Earthlings are having a dilemma. They've entered a galactic society, but incurred quite a large debt in access fees to the Library. It may or may not be the case that they were tricked into incurring that debt by the alien species who had been their guides to navigation in this society. Either way, the only option for getting out of debt is basically selling the population of Earth into slavery. Several species of alien are making offers, mostly wanting the ape-descended humans as food or incubators for their eggs. There's also a sub-plot following an other alien species who is indentured to a race of sentient trees and are also trying to get out of their contracts.
I would consider this as more of a thought experiment than a novel with a captivating plot. The intrigue comes from the structure of this galactic society and the political machinations of its denizens. As such, there are quite a few plot holes and some pretty incomprehensible leaps. However, I did find it entertaining and not a slog. ( )