Licensing FAQ

License agreements are contracts between intellectual property owners and subscribers (libraries or other institutions).

Unlike print resources, libraries don’t own most digital resources. Instead, license agreements are negotiated with each intellectual property owner to permits library users to access digital resources for a specified time and fee.

What restrictions are set by license agreements?

Although each license is unique, common use restrictions include:

  • Content may only be used for non-commercial educational, clinical, or research purposes.
  • Individuals who aren’t affiliated with the library may not use the content, or may use content only when physically present at a library
  • Printing and downloading of digital resources is subject to copyright restrictions and limited to "fair dealing" as defined by Canada’s Copyright Act
  • Altering, recompiling, systematic or programmatic copying, reselling, redistributing, or republishing of digital content is typically prohibited
  • Systematic downloading of substantial portions of an electronic title is not permitted
  • Altering or removing copyright or proprietary notices is prohibited

Who is an authorized user?

While licensing agreements vary, authorized users are generally the registered students, faculty, and staff of the institution purchasing the digital resource. In many cases, authorized users include members of the public who may use the resource on institution premises.

May I download an entire journal issue?

No. This is a violation of basic copyright principles.

May I email full-text articles to individuals who are not affiliated with AUArts?

No. As a general rule, you may not email full-text articles to unauthorized users.

How can I get further assistance understanding license agreements?

Contact library staff for help.