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Copyright and Fair Use

Text Materials- Can I use that?

  • Always link to the existing digital version of the text (e.g., article in a database). Most license agreements require use of the stable or persistent link provided and forbid downloading of content for re-posting in a CMS/LMS or electronic course reserves system.
  • Digitize hard copy texts and post electronic version in secure site accessible only by enrolled students within bounds of fair use.
  • Seek permission of not fair use.
  • Look for Creative Commons or open access content such as article versions that have been posted in an open repository according to the archiving policy of the publication. Utilize a service such as Unpaywall to help locate open access versions of scholarly material.