The resources listed below provide an introduction to the copyright/intellectual property issues associated with the use of images.
Copyright issues are particularly complex with regard to music; these links are intended as only an introduction to the issues involved. The glossary recently posted on the Music Librarians' Association web site, below, may be helpful here.
It is imperative to understand the difference between legal downloads and illegal file sharing. In the peer-to-peer file sharing context, downloading or uploading substantial parts of a copyrighted work without authority constitutes an infringement. Although there are exceptions under the law that allow copying or distribution of protected works, the use of peer-to-peer (P2P) software programs to download or upload copyrighted music and movies without permission of the copyright owner would virtually never qualify for an exception. Criminal and civil penalties may result from copyright violation, in addition to disciplinary action by Boston College.
Boston College Technological and Information Resources Use Agreement
Here are some common examples of copyright infringement:
Do not install P2P file sharing software on your computer.
This guide is designed to provide basic, general information about copyright, and does not constitute legal advice. The links to third party sites in this guide are provided for your convenience. Boston College does not take responsibility for the content of these other sites. If you have a question about a specific copyright issue not addressed by this guide, the Libraries encourage you to seek further advice.
If you have questions about this guide or a basic copyright issue, contact copyright-ggroup@bc.edu, or the subject liaison for your department.
If you have a question about the University’s policies regarding copyright, please contact the Office of Technology Transfer and Licensing at 2-1682. If you have a question that requires the advice of an attorney, please contact the Office of the General Counsel at 2-0960.