GMIT Library Catalogue

What is Copyright?

Copyright is a form of protection provided to the authors of “original works of authorship,” including literary, musical, artistic, and certain other intellectual works.

Copyrightable works include the following categories:

literary works

musical works, including any accompanying words

dramatic works, including any accompanying music

pantomimes and choreographic works

pictorial, graphic, and sculptural works

motion pictures and other audiovisual works

sound recordings

architectural works

These categories should be viewed broadly. For example, computer programs and most "compilations" may be registered as "literary works"; maps and architectural plans may be registered as "pictorial, graphic, and sculptural works."

'Fair dealing' allows:

for an individual to make a single copy of an item for private research or study

for criticism or review (with acknowledgement)

for the purposes of relating current events (again with acknowledgements but excluding photographs).

'Fair dealing' is not an actual right under legislation, but a permission or privilege and as such should not be abused.

Who Owns Copyright?

Copyright is a property right which can be bought, sold or licensed. The author (creator of a work) is the first owner of copyright.

Restrictions

Books: 1 complete chapter to a maximum of 5% of the work.

Journals: As many articles in a journal volume as there are issues in each volume. For example: 12 articles from a volume, where there are 12 issues in each volume. Or 10%, whichever is greater. For example: if there is one issue per volume, then 10% of the volume may be supplied.

Useful Links

United States Copyright Office

Notes from a presentation on Copyright given by Mr. Joe Donnelly and Ms. Mary Doyle on 21st February 2002 organised by the Government Libraries Section of the Library Association of Ireland.

These guidelines are for general guidance only NOT legal advice.