The Copyright Committee is responsible for reviewing, discussing, and recommending enhancements to library services that ensure compliance with copyright laws while promoting fair use of materials. These services include operational functions within the library and guidance for faculty, staff, and students. In the short term, the committee will focus on formalizing internal practices to improve collective understanding of our operations. The long-term objective is to establish a group of experts who can assist our library community and maintain services to support campus users. This project will not initially address Special Collections practices; however, this area may be considered in the future.

1. Internal Processes:

• Review and propose updates to the library’s copyright policies and procedures to ensure alignment with current laws and best practices.
• Develop expertise in copyright legislation and disseminate pertinent information to library staff.
• Identify reliable information sources to assist in decision-making regarding copyright matters.
• Recommend strategies for supporting copyright compliance in the evolving environment.
• Explore options for licensing or obtaining permissions for material use on campus.

2. Support for Instructors, Authors, and Others:

• Review and provide guidance on the fair use of copyrighted materials in teaching and course preparation.
• Offer recommendations to minimize copyright risks for instructors using digital or print resources.
• Assist authors in identifying and rectifying copyright issues in their work.
• Explore and communicate best practices for creating or distributing educational content in compliance with copyright laws.

2025

• An initial report summarizing findings, recommendations, and suggested actions in each of the above areas.
• Proposed updates to existing copyright policies and procedures, if necessary.
• Training materials or workshops to raise awareness and provide practical guidance for faculty, staff, and students on copyright compliance.

This committee, upon successful establishment, will function as a standing group providing ongoing service to our constituencies. The committee will collaborate to address questions and issues that may arise, ensuring continuous support and adaptation to changes in copyright law and practice.

Christine Rickabaugh, Open Education

Elyse Cano, User Services

Melody Herr, Scholarly Communications

Robin Roggio, Resource Sharing and Interlibrary Loan

Ellen Urton, Research and Instruction

Reports to Lora Lennertz, OEDPS