1986 Policy and Guidelines on the Reproduction of Copyrighted Materials for Teaching and Research

In the course of their duties, faculty and staff of the University of California may wish to use photocopied materials in the classroom and for research. In many cases, photocopying can facilitate the University's missions of teaching, research, and public service. The University therefore wishes to encourage the appropriate use of such material within the spirit and the letter of the United States Copyright Law. (Title 17 United State Code).

Copyright is a constitutionally conceived property right which is designed to promote the creation and dissemination of original works of authorship. That purpose is implemented by giving a copyright owner certain exclusive rights with respect to the owner's work, subject to certain limitations, in the mutual interest of the author, the owner, and the public. These rights include exclusive rights of reproduction, preparation of derivative works, distribution, and performance. The University strongly believes that these rights are vital in maintaining a free flow of ideas in our society.

A major limitation on the exclusive rights granted to the copyright owner is the doctrine of "fair use" (17 United States Code, Section 107) which permits certain limited copying of copyrighted works for educational or research purposes without the permission of the copyright owner. "Fair use" is a limited exception to the exclusive use of the copyright owner, which if exceeded, can subject the one making unauthorized copies and the University to severe penalties. The wide availability of copying machines has created a situation where this exception can easily be breached.

To provide guidance to all University employees, the attached Guidelines are to be used to determine whether copying is within the "fair use" doctrine. If the copying is not within the Guidelines, permission should be obtained from the copyright owner before any copies are made. If it is unclear whether copying would require such permission guidance should be requested from the Office of the General Counsel.

It is important that this Policy and Guidelines be widely distributed so that the numerous users of photocopied materials in the University will be aware of the Copyright Law.