Copyright
The Library works to educate and promote lawful uses of copyrighted works by the PSU Community. Copyright is a great concern for scholarship, publishing and teaching. Copyright law stipulates the rights and conditions authors enjoy over their works and how others may use them.
At PSU, there are several policies to consider:
- University Copyright Policy
The Library provides an overview of PSU’s copyright policy. - Intellectual Property Policies and Guidelines
Research and Sponsored Projects guidelines outlining faculty rights and responsibilities in the areas of patents, copyright, course materials, and more.
For consideration of using material in face to face, hybrid, and online courses:
- Review the PSU Copyright Guide.
- Review the Course Reserves Copyright Policy.
- Consult your Subject Librarian.
The Library and subject librarians are not qualified to provide legal advice, but can help you navigate copyright resources.
Fair Use
Fair Use doctrine, section 107 of copyright law, outlines four areas of consideration that may allow for copyrighted works to be used without a license:
- Purpose and character of use
- Nature of the copyrighted work
- Amount of work used
- Effect on the market
These considerations are weighed on a case-by-case basis. If you have questions about the applicability of fair use, please consult with your subject librarian. The Library and subject librarians are not qualified to provide legal advice, but can help you navigate fair use.