Copyright Resources

Analyze fair use to determine if you can use the work without permission or to determine if you need permission.  Follow these best practices:

• LINK!  Whenever possible use licensed library resources and link to the content.  Linking is preferable to scanning and posting digital copies of the full text of an article, a book chapter, or an image
• If you must post full text, limit to small excerpts (single article or chapter)
• Consider context: providing access to multiple works in Canvas could be considered a “digital course pack.” Course packs need permission if not allowed by the library's license.
• Check the Copyright Clearance Center to see if the library's license for the resource allows the use you want. 
• Don’t provide so much content in Canvas that the material ends up being a substitute for purchasing the materials (amount and substance of the use)
• If you use content for more than one term, get permission for each subsequent term
• If scanning a print copy to use online, make sure you have a legal original copy (you did not violate copyright when you obtained the copy)
• When the class is over, remove the copyrighted materials from the course
• Be sure posted copies carry a complete citation, proper attribution, and copyright notices.
• Do not copy content created and marketed specifically for online courses.
• Do not use consumables such as workbooks, lab manuals, etc. These are meant to be purchased and “consumed” by students.