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Copyright basics

The purpose of this guide is to help SCC faculty and students understand copyright laws and how to legally use a variety of works in class and in assignments. The guide may not answer all your questions, so please reach out to librarians any time.

Library reserves

Library Reserves

Here are guidelines relating to copyright and library reserves.
  • Books may be placed on reserve for an unlimited amount of time
  • Photocopied chapters of books may be placed on reserve for one quarter, if they meet the standards for "fair use."
  • Print magazines, newspapers and journals may be placed on reserve for an unlimited amount of time
  • Photocopied articles may be placed on reserve for one quarter, if they meet the standards for "fair use" (but see below)
  • It is preferable to link to articles in the Library's databases--because no special copyright considerations are triggered. Contact a librarian for help with this.
  • Library or legally acquired instructor-owned films may be placed on reserve for an unlimited amount of time
  • Instructor copied films or television programs may be shown in the classroom or placed on reserve for up to 10 consecutive days within 45 days of recording (see Television broadcasts, films & online recordings drop down for more details).   

A note:  Copyright law may allow you to leave items on reserve "forever," but due to space limitations, we (the SCC Library) do not!  Please check with Circulation Supervisor, Karen Waite, about reserve policies. Also, if you've reached the time limit for placing one article on reserve, check the library's databases for the article. Chances are our databases either have the article or something very similar. From your Canvas classroom, you can link to articles in our databases without worry of copyright infringement. Contact a librarian for help.