The law of copyright is multifaceted and how it affects libraries and their users can be confusing.
Staff members at Shake Library make their best effort in complying with the law in the library’s
reserve, interlibrary loan, and photocopy polices.
A common notice that libraries often state is:
NOTICE: Warning Concerning Copyright Restrictions
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in
the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of
these specified conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose
other than private study, scholarship, or research.” If a user makes a request for, or later uses,
a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use”, that user may be liable for
copyright infringement. This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying or
reproduction order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of
copyright law.
Related Internet Links Concerning U. S. Copyright Laws and Policies:
Copyright Management
Center at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis - This site provides resources
about copyright policies and standards, including interpretations as applied to situations that an
instructor, librarian, or student may encounter. Issues related to "fair use" and "distance
learning" are covered.
