Guidelines for Classroom Copying

Allegheny’s policy on the use of copyrighted information can be found in Section 9.6 of The Faculty Handbook.

This page contains specific information to help you determine whether your use of copyrighted material in coursepacks and Canvas is considered “fair use,” or whether you must seek permission to include some items. The tools and procedures outlined here were developed by the Library and Instructional Technology Committee. Additional information and guidance is available from:

Coursepack Permissions : Allegheny bookstore, 814-332-5326, bookstore@allegheny.edu
Fair Use Analysis: Doug Anderson, 814-332-3789, danderson@allegheny.edu
For answers to frequently asked questions about copyright, see the U.S. Copyright Office FAQ.

The resources in Guidelines for Classroom Copying include:

Checklist for Fair Use

Fair use analysis is never entirely certain. The American Library Association’s Checklist for Fair Use is a tool to help you determine whether you may make or distribute copies (i.e., put a copy in Canvas) of a work protected by copyright without permission from the copyright holder. If fewer than half the circumstances favor fair use, you should use a coursepack or put a paper copy on reserve in the library.

It is recommended that you (1) complete and retain a copy of this form in connection with each “fair use” of a copyrighted work, (2) be sure to properly cite the work when using it in Canvas or other platforms, and (3) include a copyright notice.