I hope that you are finding my posts helpful and informative. I know that I’m learning some things along the way myself!
The terms and conditions found within a license agreement will determine whether or not a library can lend to students or library patrons. As mentioned in previous posts, the license agreement is usually within the shrink-wrap of computer software. It is always wise to review the agreement before opening the software case. If the intended use of the software is not permitted by the agreement, the library should reconsider purchasing the product. A purchaser may contact the software producer to request and amendment to the agreement. The producer may approve that the library be able to lend the software. Should the software producer approve the amendment, it is suggested to get the approval in writing before lending the item.
Reed (1989) suggests that librarians make a note on the purchase order that if the requested software does not allow lending to patrons, not to fill the purchase order.
In closing, what would you do in the follow scenario:
You are talking to a colleague of yours that was talking in conversation how he/she borrowed a “fabulous” software program that created Sudoku puzzles for the students that they were “really into” and the colleague mentioned that they didn’t uninstall the program before returning it to the library.
Next post’s topic: Types of Copyright Infringement
References
Billington, J.H. (Ed.). (1991). Computer software lending by libraries, copyright warning.
Reed, M.H. (1989). Computer software: Copyright and licensing considerations for schools and libraries. ERIC Digest [Electronic version]. ERIC Clearinghouse on Information Resources.
3 comments:
We are pretty strict about keeping up with licenses in our school computers. I would be surprised to find software at a library that I could borrow, install, and "keep" on my own computer. I would expect that to be a violation. Are there any software applications that libraries buy and lend for that purchase? I haven't seen it yet. I am really learning a lot about copyright!
I think your information is great! Keep it up! If this were me in the situation, I would tell my fellow coworker to possibly speak to the librarian about copyright laws. We had this situation at my school where vocabulary software was able to be burned onto a cd or loaded on computers. The technician explained to us why we couldn't do this and he would take care of it for us. It's amazing how many of us educators are so ignorant of these policies!
Jessica
Honestly....I am not sure that I would say anything. Although after reading our Copyright text my feelings are changing. I know a lady that would do exactly that...the scenario you posted.
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