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Copyright

A brief guide to copyright from UCC Library

'Content creators...put hard work into their published pieces, so that we can enjoy and be educated by their creations. All they ask in return is credit for the time and resources they’ve spent, so that, if they wish, they can earn a living from their skills and expertise' - Irish Copyright Licensing Agency

You will frequently use copyrighted materials when working on assignments, research or other private study.

For example, you may need to:

  • Quote the exact words of an author or other creator
  • Rephrase the ideas of a creator using your own words
  • Reproduce an image, graphic or figure produced by another creator
  • Present a music or video clip to an audience as part of a presentation

These and other similar uses are allowed under the fair dealing exemption in Irish law (see the tab on Restrictions and 'Fair Dealing') once certain conditions are met.  Fair dealing has no exact legal definition. Its intention is to facilitate a reasonable balance between the economic interests of the copyright holder and the information needs of the user. 

Copying, Printing & Scanning (Reprographics)

Fair dealing allows single copying for oneself under the following conditions:

  • The copy is for research or private study, criticism or review, reporting current events, or the copy is for judicial or parliamentary proceedings
  • The amount copied will not unreasonably prejudice the interests of the owner of the copyright
  • The copy is accompanied by sufficient acknowledgement or reference
  • The copy must not be re-copied, republished, posted on a web page or multi-copied

Students and staff can download, copy, print or save material from any database or e-journal to which the institution subscribes, for educational purposes, research or private study, but not for commercial gain.

The majority of online resources do not permit systematic or substantial downloading or copying.

Scanning material for private study or research would be covered by fair dealing, under the same conditions and limitations as for print copying.

Performance and media

Performing a literary, dramatic or musical work is permitted, as is playing or showing a sound recording, film, broadcast or cable programme at an educational establishment for the purpose of instruction, as long as the audience is limited to teachers and pupils of the establishment or other persons directly connected with the activities of the establishment. 

Refer to sections 53-58 of the Act for further information.

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