Reproduction of Copyrighted Works by Educators and Librarians

by Library of Congress. Copyright Office

"Reproduction of Copyrighted Works by Educators and Librarians" is a publication by the United States Copyright Office, aimed at providing guidance regarding copyright laws as they pertain to educational and library contexts. Written in the late 20th century, this circular addresses the legal frameworks governing the reproduction of copyrighted works, focusing on educators and librarians' abilities to copy and distribute material under the provisions of fair use and specific exemptions outlined in copyright legislation. The document offers a comprehensive overview of relevant sections from U.S. copyright law, particularly Sections 106 and 107, which define exclusive rights and fair use, respectively. It includes guidelines for reproduction by educators for classroom use and by libraries for research and archival purposes. The text emphasizes that while reproduction is generally restricted, certain educational uses may fall under the fair use doctrine, allowing for limited copying without infringement claims. Additionally, it specifies conditions under which libraries can reproduce works, reinforcing the need for compliance with copyright regulations while facilitating access to educational resources.