Actions for Libraries

Public, academic, and private libraries throughout the U.S. spend billions of dollars each year to purchase a variety of software and digital products. Libraries share the same concerns as business and institutional users. Increasing costs in purchasing materials for public libraries and maintaining library networks is often passed on to state and local governments. The terms in “shrink-wrap” and “click-wrap” agreements often prohibit libraries from lending digital materials, making back-up copies for archival purposes, or from making fair use of digital information, activities that are otherwise permitted under longstanding U.S. copyright law. Here’s how libraries can take action.

• Endorse the Principles

• Help spread the word: If you can help spread the word about unfair digital product terms through your existing communications channels (newsletters, advertising, email lists, please write to baish@law.georgetown.edu

• Make the 12 Principles part of your evaluation criteria for software and other digital product purchases.

• Use the 12 Principles as a tool to evaluate shrink-wrap and click-wrap agreements

• Review the model Fair End User Licensing Agreement (FEULA)

• Respond to AFFECT’s Action Alerts when there is pending legislation in your state that will promote more fair business practice. Contact your legislator.