Copyright Policy
Background
The Alamosa Public Library will attempt to adhere to the United States copyright law and the doctrine of fair use. The intent of copyright is to encourage the development of new and original works and to stimulate their wide distribution by assuring that their creators will be fairly compensated for their contributions to society. The current American copyright law is embodied in Title 17 of the United States Code.
Definitions
Copyright
A limited monopoly granted by federal law. It is the exclusive right that protects an author, composer, or programmer from having his or her work duplicated except by permission.
Fair Use
The legal right to copy a limited amount of material under certain conditions without harm to the owner. Such copying is allowable without obtaining permission from the copyright owner. Copyright law stipulates that photocopying and other kinds of duplication and reproduction must abide by the criteria of “fair use.” The fair use criteria must be applied to determine if intended copying is “fair.” The four criteria of fair use are specified by Section 107 of Title 17 and all criteria need to apply in judging whether or not there may be an infringement. Meeting only one of the criteria is not enough. The copying must reflect appropriate use of all four criteria.
Library Policy
U.S. Copyright law (Title 17, U.S.C.) prohibits the unauthorized reproduction or distribution of copyrighted materials, except as permitted by principles of “fair use”. Users may not copy or distribute electronic materials (including electronic mail, text, images, programs or data) without the explicit permission of the copyright holder. Any responsibilities for any consequences of copyright infringement lie with the users. The Alamosa Public Library expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility resulting from such use.
Public Notice
A notice, placed at the Circulation Desk, includes the following text:
NOTICE CONCERNING COPYRIGHT RESTRICTIONS
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, U.S.Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Federal law requires that each library patron follow the law when making reproductions.
Approved by Library Board of Trustees
September 28, 2010