Copyright Guidelines for Audio/Visual Media
1. Generally speaking, with the exception of "hard news" shows and those programs distributed by the Public Broadcasting Service, it is illegal to make videotape copies of any copyrighted material broadcast on either commercial or public television (PBS normally alerts schools as to which programs may be taped and retained for a maximum of 45 days, after which a licensing agreement must be obtained). The Library will attempt to purchase programs of significant educational value within budgetary constraints.
2. It is recommended that instructors give advance notice to students when a program will be broadcast that is germane to their classes. The Library will attempt to arrange a live feed of a requested program if technically feasible.
3. Audiocassettes used on an individualized basis with a related text or workbook may be duplicated and circulated exclusively for student use if the instructor has obtained written permission for such duplication from the appropriate copyright holder and forwarded a copy of the permission on to the Media Technician. In all other cases, except as noted in provision 5 of the adopted "Guidelines for Educational Uses of Music" (on file with the Director of Library & Media Services), the Library is prohibited from making copies of any copyrighted audiovisual materials for instructors, staff, students, or members of the community for which permission to duplicate has not been obtained from the copyright owner.
4. Duplication of Computer Software
Computer programs and data, including Web sites and other online content, are subject to the same regulations as other media.
5. Copyrighted Materials on Library Reserves
The law prohibits multiple copies by libraries and consequently the Reserve Book section of the Library will provide as required single copies only. However, on the assumption that faculty are acting in compliance with the law, the Library will accept multiple copies brought in for placement on reserve by faculty members.
6. Responsibility for Decisions
It is not feasible to designate one individual to determine when explicit permission of copyright owners should be sought for particular uses of copyrighted materials. Therefore, every instructor and staff member who may be involved in the reproduction of copyrighted materials for classroom use has an important responsibility to assure that the rights of the copyright holders are recognized and honored. To this end, the Director of Library and Media Services will maintain a supply of standardized "Request for Permission" forms for use by the instructional staff. |
