FAQs on Copyright: Video
- Question: I wish to show a copyrighted DVD/videocassette to my class in its entirety. Is this permissible?
- Question: I have a DVD/Videotape/CD/etc I wish to place on reserve at the library, but I'm afraid it will be damaged in the process. May I have a copy made and place the copy on reserve instead?
- Question: I would like to place excerpts of various DVDs/Videocassettes/CDs/etc on reserve. Is this possible and is there help available for creating a compilation of these excerpts?
- Question: May I place on reserves at the library a DVD, video tape, music CD, etc which I own?
- Question: What if the DVD, video tape, etc has a label on it that says "for home use only," "individual use only," or other such language?
Question: I wish to show a copyrighted DVD/videocassette to my class in its entirety. Is this permissible?
Answer: The video is being shown for instructional purposes at a non-profit, educational institution and students are not being charged fees to view the video. This qualifies as fair use.
Question: I have a DVD/Videotape/CD/etc I wish to place on reserve at the library, but I'm afraid it will be damaged in the process. May I have a copy made and place the copy on reserve instead?
Answer: No. Unfortunately, there is no provision in the Copyright Law for making a copy in order to prevent damage to the original, within a course reserves setting. If the potential for damage is a concern, we recommend purchasing an additional copy to place on reserve. The University Libraries is currently conducting a pilot project of videostreaming, which may offer additional options in the future.
Question: I would like to place excerpts of various DVDs/Videocassettes/CDs/etc on reserve. Is this possible and is there help available for creating a compilation of these excerpts?
Answer: Generally, Fair Use does allow excerpts ("clips") of audiovisual material to be placed on reserve, although large amounts may require that a Fair Use analysis be made. The Libraries Systems department can provide assistance in putting together a compilation of clips for faculty use on course reserves.
Question: May I place on reserves at the library a DVD, video tape, music CD, etc which I own?
Answer: Yes. Assuming the DVD, etc is a lawfully acquired original (i.e., not a copy which you have made), the right of First Sale allows you to do this without asking for permission or paying any fees.
Question: What if the DVD, video tape, etc has a label on it that says "for home use only," "individual use only," or other such language?
Answer: Unless you have signed a license (including a "click through" license, if applicable), then the content owner has no legal right to limit your usage.
The right of First Sale, absent a more restrictive license, allows you to place the material on reserve, use it for your class, etc.
This site is not intended to provide legal advice about copyright.
