There are two main concerns for faculty related to copyright: (1) What are my rights for the work that I create, and (2) What are my responsibilities when sharing the work of others?

The information presented here is related to your responsibilities when sharing the work of others.  Topics include:

1. Copyright & Fair Use FAQs

2. How to Avoid Infringement

3. What is Fair Use?

Can I upload the PDF to my Moodle page? 

It is recommended that you post a link to the document.  If you’d like a direct link to a subscription resource and are not sure where to find it, please contact the library.  We can assist you in creating links that are accessible to on- and off-campus students.

Can I download and distribute articles to patients?

It's best to summarize and share the knowledge found in the articles.  Please do not make copies and give them to patients.  If the patient needs to read the entire article themselves, and the article is in a library subscription, they are welcome to visit the library and ask for a guest login to the computer.  Library staff can help them locate the article using the information you give them.

What if I want to share an article in a journal we don’t subscribe to with my students?

Please contact the library to discuss your options.

If you plan to share copyright-protected material, consider the following:

1. Don't Copy/Attach, Use a Link:  Instead of providing a copy, can you provide a link? Linking to the information is the simplest way to avoid problems.   The library provides access to many subscription resources.  Go to Linking to Library Content to learn the steps. 
2. Evaluate for Fair Use: If providing a copy/attachment is your only option, thoroughly consider the four factors of Fair Use.  This shows a good faith effort and you may discover you can adjust your use of the information to remain fair.
3. Obtain Permission: You may ask the copyright owner for permission to use the material.  If you do this, and obtain permission, include a statement to this fact within the file.
4. Ask the Library: If you have flexibility in your options, consult with the library.  We can help you find a link, or possibly suggest an alternative.  

Watch this brief video to help understand what is, and is not, fair use.