The photocopying of copyrighted material is subject to strict legal regulation, and failure to adhere to these laws may be punishable both civilly and criminally. The University does not condone or encourage any actions which violate copyright law, whether or not University facilities are used. Generally, the photocopying of print materials without the consent of the copyright owner is an infringement on the owner's rights. However, representatives of education and of the publishing industry have formulated an agreement whereby certain types of copying are deemed "fair use" and do not require permission. The "Guidelines for Classroom Copying" are provided to help you evaluate whether a particular use is fair. For more information, contact the Office of Legal Affairs at 301.405.4945.

If permission to reproduce copyrighted material is required, it may be obtained by writing to the owner of the copyright, to the publisher, or to the Copyright Clearance Center. Alternatively, University Reprographic Services (301.405.2679) or many commercial copying services (such as Kinko's) will submit requests to the Copyright Clearance Center for you.

Copyright Clearance Center
27 Congress Street
Salem, Massachusetts 01970 508.744.3350

Requests should be made sufficiently in advance to allow for the time needed to obtain permission. Remember that there may be a fee for the permission.