Do copyright principles apply to materials purchased and licensed by Government libraries?
Federal librarians procure published materials in a variety of formats for the use of federal employees and the public. Generally, federal libraries do not own copyrights in the materials in their collection. In the paper environment, libraries usually purchase copies to add to their collections. Copyright law, fair use, and the “first sale” doctrine address the rights and responsibilities of the library as purchaser and of its users. However, in the digital environment, while copyright principles apply, the rights of the library and its users are usually negotiated through contractual agreements and licenses. The terms of these agreements usually allow viewing materials and making reasonable copies for personal or agency use. Most specifically forbid: • Substantial or systematic reproduction. • Systematic supply or distribution to non-authorized users. It is important to work with your agency contracting officer and legal advisor in negotiating license agreements for databases, e-book
